GMOs and the Cartagena Protocol.

• Author: Winiecki, Jacob
• Position: FROM READERS - Letter to the Editor

I would like to applaud Claire Hope Cummings' work exploring the complex scientific and political dimensions surrounding modern biotechnology ("Trespass," Jan/Feb issue). However, I do not share her pessimistic view of the future. The extent to which GMOs [genetically modified organisms] pose significant risks to the environment and human health is contentious and uncertain. This uncertainty does not guarantee an unsafe future and should not dissuade the media from discussing the milestone international agreement addressing the risks posed by GMOs.

Adopted by the United Nations in 2000, the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety establishes efforts to reduce and ultimately eliminate the potential risks posed by modern biotechnology by addressing the safe transit, handling, and use of GMOs across nations. The 103 Parties to the Protocol recognize that modern biotechnology holds the potential for significant improvements in human well-being, but must be developed and used safely through...