What is the main goal of the Biosafety Protocol?

The main goal of the Biosafety Protocol is to ensure safe handling and transport of living modified organisms (LMOs). This international agreement, formally known as the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, aims to protect biological diversity from potential risks posed by LMOs resulting from biotechnology. It establishes procedures for the safe transfer, handling, and use of LMOs, particularly those intended for food, feed, or processing.

This protocol emphasizes risk assessment and management to ensure that the use of biotechnology does not harm human health or the environment. It seeks to facilitate safe trade in LMOs while providing countries with the ability to make informed decisions about importing and using these organisms, thus balancing innovation in biotechnology with environmental protection and public health safety.

While promoting the sale of organic products or limiting agricultural exports may be related to broader agricultural policy goals, they do not align with the specific mandate of the Biosafety Protocol. Additionally, the Protocol does not aim to outlaw genetically modified crops but rather to regulate their use to ensure safety.