Biotechnology Under the Spotlight - The Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act - 1996

Australasian Biotechnology, Volume 8 Number 5, September/October 1998, pp. 299-302 Regulatory Issues Biotechnology Under the Spotlight - The Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act - 1996 Mark Christensen/Martin Williams Code Number:AU98038 Sizes of Files: Text: 18K Graphics: No associated graphics files This article examines the potential impact of the new Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 on the biotechnology industry in New Zealand. The purpose of the paper is to provide an overview of the Act and, in particular, the need to obtain approvals under the Act for genetic modifications. The procedures for processing of applications for approval are explained. In particular, the implications of the extent of public involvement in the decision making process for the industry are outlined, along with the approach the industry should take in this new regulatory environment in light of public concerns about biotechnology, and in particular genetically-modified foods. It is argued that, provided the right approach is taken, the biotechnology industry should be able to take full advantage of this robust regulatory system, to ensure that the benefits which the industry can provide to the economy are realised, and the profile of the industry is enhanced. Copyright 1998 Australian Biotechnology Association Ltd