Genetically Modified Pest-Protected Plants

This book explores the risks and benefits of crops that are genetically modified for pest resistance, the urgency of establishing an appropriate regulatory framework for these products, and the importance of public understanding of the issues. The committee critically reviews federal policies toward transgenic products, the 1986 coordinated framework among the key federal agencies in the field, and rules proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency for regulation of plant pesticides. This book provides detailed analyses of: Mechanisms and results of genetic engineering compared to conventional breeding for pest resistance. Review of scientific issues associated with transgenic pest-protected plants, such as allergenicity, impact on nontarget plants, evolution of the pest species, and other concerns. Overview of regulatory framework and its use of scientific information with suggestions for improvements. Table of Contents Front Matter Executive Summary 1. Introduction and Background 2. Potential Environmental and Human Health Implications of Pest-Protected Plants 3. Crossroads of Science and Oversight 4. Strengths and Weaknesses of the Current Regulatory Framework References Appendix A: Costs of Regulating Transgenic Pest-Protected Plants Appendix B: Example of Data Submitted to Federal Agencies Appendix C: Committee on Genetically Modified Pest-Protected Plants Public Workshop Appendix D: Acronyms Appendix E: Scientific and Common Names Appendix F: Committee and Staff Biographical Information Index