GMOs

This book covers a broad spectrum of topics related to GMOs and allied new gene-based technologies, biodiversity, and ecosystem processes, bringing together the contributions of researchers and regulators from around the world. The aim is to offer a clear view of the benefits and effects of genetically modified crops, insects, and other animals on the soil microbiome and ecological processes. Contributors examine issues related to the development of risk assessment procedures and regulations designed to maximize benefits while minimizing risks.

Beyond the scientific challenges of GMOs, the book explores the broad and contentious terrain of ethical considerations. The contributors discuss such questions as the unintended, possibly unforeseen, consequences of releasing GMOs into ecosystems, and the likelihood that the full effects of GMOs could take years, even decades, of close monitoring to become evident. The importance of developing a precautionary approach is stressed.

The final chapter describes the critical issues of governance and regulation of new and emerging gene-based technologies, as nations grapple with the consequences of adopting the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (CPB). GMOs: Implications for Biodiversity Conservation and Ecological Processes includes an extensive Annex which outlines legal perspectives on the state of GMO governance around the world, with more than 20 examples from nations in Africa, South and Central America, Asia, Australasia, and Europe.

1. Introduction
2. Brief Overview and History of Biotechnology; GMOs, Biodiversity, and Ecosystem Functioning
3. Impact of GMOs on Environment and Ecology
4. GMOs: Impact on Genetic Diversity, Gene Flow, and Evolutionary Challenges
5. GM Crops and Agricultural Biodiversity; Impact on Agro-Ecosystem and Farmland Biodiversity
7. Biodiversity and Non-Target Effects of Transgenic Plants; GM Crops and Insect, Honeybee, Butterflies Biodiversity
8. GM Crops and Microbial Biodiversity; Impact on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi
9. GM Animals: Impact on Biodiversity, Ecosystem, and Bioethical Analysis
10. Genetically Engineered Fish: Impact on Biodiversity, Environment, and Aquaculture
11. Genetically Engineered Insects: Ecological Effect and Disease Control
12. Genetically Modified Microbes: Impact on Ecology, Biodiversity, and Ecosystem Functioning
13. Gene Editing Technology: Impact on Environment, Ecology, and Biodiversity
14. Engineered Gene Drives: Ecological, Environmental, and Social Impacts
15. Emerging Technologies and Application and Genetic Engineering for Biological Conservation, and Species Rescue from Extinction
16. Conclusion