FAO Told More GM Study Needed

ROME - Jan 27/05 - SNS -- An expert panel convened by the United Nation's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) wants to see more study done on the impact of genetically modified (GM) crops before their use becomes more widespread.

It said any "responsible deployment of Genetically Modified (GM) crops needs to comprise the whole technology development process, from the pre-release risk assessment, to biosafety considerations and post release monitoring."

Environmental goals must also encompass the maintenance and protection of basic natural resources such as soil, water and biodiversity. In this way monitoring could become the key element in generating the necessary knowledge to protect agro-systems, rural livelihoods and broader ecological integrity.

Potential hazards associated with GM cropping - according to the scientists - have all to be placed within the broader context of both positive and negative impacts that are associated with all agricultural practices.

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