Options for regulating new genomic techniques for plants in the European Union

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Law
• Plant Biotechnology
• European Union Policy

Background:

• The European Commission has proposed a new regulation for plants developed using specific new genomic techniques (NGTs).
• This regulation is currently under discussion within the EU legislative process.
• The proposed reforms aim to integrate greater sustainability into European Union law.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the most feasible and scientifically justifiable option for regulating NGT-derived plants under EU law.
• To align NGT regulation with the EU's sustainability goals and climate action objectives.
• To provide insights for the ongoing legislative decision-making process.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of regulatory options for NGT-derived plants.
• Interdisciplinary research involving scientific and legal experts.
• Evaluation of options based on scientific feasibility and sustainability integration.

Main Results:

• Six distinct regulatory options were identified through comprehensive research.
• The study highlights the benefits of an option prioritizing plant traits linked to sustainability.
• This trait-focused approach aligns with climate action and climate neutrality goals.

Conclusions:

• Regulating NGT plants based on their sustainability-enhancing traits is the most scientifically justifiable and feasible option.
• This regulatory strategy effectively supports climate action and the transition to climate neutrality.
• It facilitates the prompt integration of sustainability into all food-related policies within the EU.