The Release of Genetically Modified Organisms into the Environment: Public Concerns and Regulatory Responses

Abstract

Public concern about the health and environmental implications of genetically modified organisms has not been allayed. This concern has been reflected in, for example, consumer choice and the reluctance of juries to convict those protesting against field trials. Two aspects of the response by the Community legislature may be examined: first, increasing recourse to the precautionary principle; and, secondly, the proposed regime to address environmental liability. The adequacy of such measures is, however, to be judged against the background of calls at the highest level for an entrepreneurial Community to participate more fully in the biotechnology revolution.