Engaging U.S. experts in environmental oversight of GE crops as it relates to novel biotechnologies

Advances in agricultural biotechnologies, including gene editing and other new genomic techniques, are expanding the range of organisms, traits, and applications being released into the environment. Questions have been raised about the adequacy of the existing U.S. environmental governance frameworks. This study investigates U.S. expert stakeholder perspectives on the environmental oversight of genetically engineered crops and emerging biotechnologies using a qualitative methodology rooted in a systems-thinking approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 experts in biotechnology oversight from industry, government, academia, and non-governmental organizations. Transcripts were analyzed thematically to identify perceptions related to strengths, limitations, and future needs of the oversight, especially in the wake of emerging technologies. Findings from the interviews indicate broad confidence in the scientific rigor and environmental safety for established genetic engineering applications, particularly in controlled agricultural contexts, contrary to the authors' initial expectations. At the same time, concerns were raised about the statutory limitations, regulatory burden, and the capacity of the current oversight system to evaluate more novel biotechnologies. Participants consistently emphasized recommendations for more centralized and proactive governance, risk-proportionate assessments, and adaptive management that is more grounded in the trait and impact of new agricultural biotechnologies. These findings highlight the importance of systems-oriented approaches for environmental oversight that supports innovation while protecting ecological sustainability.