Risk Assessment for Uncontained Applications of Genetically Engineered Organisms

By applying the tools of modern molecular biology it is possible to produce genetically engineered organisms (GEOs) tailored to particular uses. During development, all field trials of transgenic products involve the potential for an accidental release into the open environment (Witt, 1990). The inherent danger to ecosystems must be assessed and managed through risk assessment protocols. Over the past decade, the use of agricultural products modified through biotechnology has moved beyond the testing stage, and many crops grown from genetically altered seeds are widely marketed. Formal procedures for assessing the associated risks are well established; to date, there have been no known adverse environmental effects from the release of terrestrial GEOs (Medley, 1996).