GMO Research Programme - Reports
New Bt toxins in the EU GMO application process: A review of published research into impacts on non-target insects and ecosystem function
Consultant: Dr Tanja Schuler
Ref: TS1
Project duration: June – December 2006
Cost: £10,350
Dr Tanja Schuler was commissioned by Defra to review existing studies on new Bt maize events. This study provides information on the current state of knowledge of the adverse effects of Bt events not previously assessed for release or cultivation in Europe. The report focuses on the Bt events that are not yet authorised for cultivation in the EU and also highlights Bt events and crops that may offer benefits to EU farmers, growers and foresters in the future.
The report recommends that:
- A review of the chrysomelid non-target coleopteran species in UK maize fields and the areas surrounding them should be undertaken (and similarly that the distribution of UK butterflies and moths in maize growing areas should be investigated).
- The EU should develop guidance on approaches and standards for non-target studies.
- The interaction between herbicide persistence and Bt toxins should be considered in the environmental impact assessment of GM crops expressing both HT and Bt traits.
- The persistence of Bt toxins in soil should be monitored as part of the post market monitoring plan (in order to provide useful data for future risk assessments).
Report
Available to download in Adobe Acrobat (PDF) format (340 KB).
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Page last modified:
18 May, 2007
Page published: 18 May 2007