About the project

The SIGMEA project (Sustainable Introduction of GMOs into European Agriculture) is part of the Eurpean Commission Sixth Framework Program: Policy Oriented Research.  The overall objective of SIGMEA is to set up a science-based framework, including strategies, methods and tools for assessing ecological and economical impacts of GM crops and for an effective management of their development within European cropping systems. The project has brought together expert groups from (14) member states

Workpack 6 in University of Sheffield

Putting in place appropriate mechanisms to tackle questions of liability and redress for harm caused by the release of GMOs has become a central aspect of the broader regulation of GMOs. Both liability and regulation are concerned with managing and reducing the societal, financial and ecological consequences of the potential harm that might be caused by the use and release of such GMOs, particularly in a commercial context. The Sheffield Institute of Biotechnological Law and Ethics (SIBLE) has the task of examining the current or proposed regulatory regimes in Member States, especially in response to the implementation of EU legislation, as well as the interest and practice of insurance and re-insurance companies related to liability issues on the release of GMOs which result in damage to person, property or the environment.  Border related liability issues will also be addressed. A clear distinction between environmental damage and economic damage related to co-existence issues will be drawn.

  Questionnaire on the Regulation Status of Member States on Liability and Redress Resulting from the Release of GMOs