Brussels, 11/12/2014 (Agence Europe) - A further step towards authorising the cultivation of genetically modified organisms in the EU from 2015 was taken on Wednesday 10 December, with the member states being allowed greater latitude.
The member states' ambassadors to the EU, Coreper, approved the agreement in principle reached in trialogue on 3 December on the draft European directive which will amend existing legislation (Directive 2001/18/EC) allowing member states, under very strict conditions, to ban or restrict the cultivation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) within their borders (see EUROPE 11211).
During the procedure for authorising GMO cultivation, member states may ask to be excluded from the geographical scope of the authorisation - a decision they may review at a later date if they decide ultimately that they wish to grow GMOs on all or part of their territory.
Once the GMO has been authorised, member states will be able to restrict or ban cultivation after convincing the Commission of grounds such as those related to environmental or agricultural policy objectives, or other compelling grounds such as town and country-planning, land use, socio-economic impacts, co-existence and public policy.
The member states which allow GM crops to be grown within their borders must avoid cross-border contamination in neighbouring countries unless particular geographical conditions make these measures unnecessary.
If confirmed by the Parliament and the Council, the new more flexible regime for GMOs will come into effect in the European Union in spring of next year. (AN)