The Cartagena Protocol (1992) is an International Agreement Dealing with Biosafety

The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement that was adopted in 2000 by the Conference of Parties (COP) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The purpose of the protocol is to promote the safe handling, transport, and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology that may have an adverse impact on the environment and human health. The protocol is a key tool in protecting biodiversity and preventing the transboundary movement of LMOs that may have potential risks.

Biosafety is the term used to describe the safe handling, transport, and use of LMOs. It is essential to ensure that the use of modern biotechnology does not have an adverse impact on the environment and human health. Modern biotechnology refers to the application of science and technology to living organisms, their parts, products, and models, to alter living or non-living materials for specific uses. The use of modern biotechnology has expanded exponentially in recent years, and the Cartagena Protocol addresses concerns surrounding the use of LMOs resulting from these technological advancements.

Under the Cartagena Protocol, countries are obligated to assess and manage the risks associated with LMOs. The protocol requires countries to provide advance notification and obtain the consent of the importing country before any transboundary movement of LMOs. This notification and consent procedure is referred to as the “Biosafety Clearing-House” (BCH). The BCH is an online, publicly accessible database that provides information about LMOs and their potential risks. It also facilitates the exchange of information between countries to ensure that the import of LMOs is conducted safely.

The Cartagena Protocol also provides guidance on how to handle, transport, and use LMOs in laboratories, field trials, and commercial applications. These guidelines are intended to ensure that the risks associated with LMOs are adequately managed and that they do not harm the environment or human health.

In conclusion, the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement that promotes the safe handling, transport, and use of LMOs resulting from modern biotechnology. The Protocol is an essential tool in protecting biodiversity and preventing the transboundary movement of LMOs that may have potential risks. As countries continue to develop and use modern biotechnology, the Cartagena Protocol provides a framework for ensuring that these advancements are made safely and sustainably.