ABSTRACT
Biotechnology is a key technology with an immense range of applications and tools enabling the development of novel traits through the intra- and interspecies transfer of DNA. Any new technology has both risks and benefits. The potential for altering the genetic structure and characteristics of living organisms, including humans, plants and animals has resulted in a plethora of safety concerns and ethical implications of biotechnology. There might be potential impacts on the environment from the escape or release of genetically engineered organisms (GEM). This could result in unwanted gene flow affecting non-target organisms. Moreover, insects or weeds exposed to GM (genetically modified) crops could evolve resistance in a mechanism similar to synthetic ones, which could result in increased reliance on other toxic insecticides or herbicides. In order to predict, monitor and manage the potential environmental impacts of biotechnology, the issue has to be addressed at various levels such as developing appropriate monitoring protocols, drafting policy for the use of GEM, and debating the ethics of the technology. All these aspects have been summarized in this chapter.
