Concepts for General Surveillance: VDI Proposals Standardisation and Harmonisation in the Field of GMO-Monitoring

Abstract.

Monitoring of genetically modified organisms (GMO) is demanded in the European directive on the deliberate release of genetically modified organisms into the environment (2001/18/EC) as well as in the German Act on Gene Technology.

It is essential for a safe implementation of genetic engineering to accomplish environmental surveillance. It needs to be assured that results are precise and specific and that collected data are comparable. The early and certain detection of environmental effects caused by GMO demands accepted and standardised methods.

The Association of German Engineers (VDI) works on developing a body of regulations of specific methods for a GMO-monitoring. This standardisation project is funded by the German Federal Agency for Nature Conservation. By applying those methods it can be guaranteed to fulfil legal requirements.

Out of the series VDI 4330 four guidelines covering the exposure of GMOs and molecular analytics have already been published as drafts. Due to the reference to the European legislation and the comparable requirements in the European Union these guidelines were published in German and English. They can be purchased separately or within the VDI-Handbook Biotechnology Part 1: GMO-monitoring. Futher guidelines are on their way and will be published soon. Information on current publications can be received via internet (http://www.vdi.de/gmo).