The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service today announced the creation of an environmental and ecological analysis unit within its biotechnology regulatory services program.

APHIS has had a strong focus on analyzing the environmental and ecological effects of genetically engineered plants. This new unit will provide additional resources to address anticipated increases in permit applications to field test GE plants and petitions to deregulate these products. This staff will ensure that as science advances, all the necessary safeguards are in place to protect America’s agricultural and natural resources. The new unit will also help APHIS expand its environmental analyses as it considers new regulations under the Plant Protection Act of 2000.

Employees in this unit will conduct analysis of the environmental and ecological effects of field testing genetically engineered plants to assist in the development of BRS regulations and permit conditions, ensure BRS’ continued compliance with environmental regulations and coordinate oversight of BRS’ environmental impact statements.

BRS is responsible for regulating the introduction (importation, interstate movement and field release) of genetically engineered organisms such as plants, insects, microorganisms and any other organism that is known to, or could be, a plant pest. Through a strong regulatory framework, BRS works to ensure the safe and confined introduction of new genetically engineered plants with significant safeguards to prevent the accidental release of any such material.