5th biosafety course in Tromsø successfully organized

15.08.2007

For two weeks 43 participants and around 20 presenters/resource persons studied different aspects of biosafety in Tromsø.

The participants represented 37 of the world’s countries and were a diverse mix of scientists, academics, regulators and NGO representatives. In addition to listening to a wide range of presentations, the participants also did group work and exercises in the lab at the University of Tromsø.

Some of the topics covered were:

• Overview of genomes, genes and gene expression
• GE process: creation and detection of GMO
• Laboratory practicals on PCR and HGT into bacterial and mammalian cells
• Biodiversity, ecosystems and ecological impacts of GMOs
• Future applications of genetic engineering
• Cultural, social, political issues related to GE/GMO
• Risk assessment and management
• Implementation of the Precautionary Principle
• Policy issues, including capacity building and participation (scientific, enforcement, educational, legal)
• Cartagena Protocol, WTO and other international agreements
• Practical use of the Biosafety Assessment Tool

Here is part of the group on one of the mountains close to Tromsø town.