Well done to NZ Government for decision to ratify Biosafety Protocol

Greenpeace applauds the NZ Government´s decision to ratify the Cartegena Protocol on Biosafety. The Biosafety Protocol is an historic achievement whereby, for the first time under international law, there is an explicit requirement that countries take precautionary measures to prevent GE organisms from causing harm to biodiversity and human health. Over 100 countries have already ratified the environmental Protocol and it came into force on September 11 2003.

A total of 1200 submissions were received by the Government – mostly in support of the protocol. At least 800 of these were made via the Greenpeace website. Greenpeace also made a substantive submission calling on the Government to ratify.

"This is a treaty that should be supported by all governments that care about the protection of the global environment, food security and the preservation of the world´s genetic resources from the risks of GE organisms," said Greenpeace campaigner Steve Abel.

"It´s very good news that the Government has chosen to ratify. Once they do, it is crucial that New Zealand does not take a roll in undermining the protocol in the interests of corporate trade, but is proactive in strengthening it and ensuring swift implementation for the good of the world´s environment."

The New Zealand government has historically being part of the Miami Group - a coalition of exporting nations that have sought to weaken the Protocol. The Miami Group includes the US,Argentina and Canada - the worlds three biggest GE crop producers.