News Release

Genetically engineered organisms: Hazardous or beneficial

Meeting Announcement

Ecological Society of America

The phrase Genetically Engineered Organisms (GEOs) elicits responses of both fear and wonder from the public. Some fear the possible consequences of genetic engineering, while others are amazed at the power of its potential.

On Sunday, August 8, 1999 the Ecological Society of America will discuss the topic of GEOs during a symposium entitled "Ecologists and Biosafety: Theoretical and Practical Considerations for Assessing Ecological and Human Health Effects of Genetically Engineered Organisms." The session, which will be held as a part of the Society's Annual Meeting in Spokane, Washington, will focus on the delicate balance between the utility of these organisms and the risks they pose to the environment and to people.

In 1989, the ESA produced an influential report entitled "The Release of Genetically Engineered Organisms," which included ecological considerations and recommendations. Ten years later, the subject remains a hotly debated topic inside and out of the scientific community.

The symposium will feature a variety of case studies on GEOs. A diverse group of engineered plants will be covered, along with their resistance to pests and herbicides. Andrew Spielman, of the Harvard School of Public Health, will discuss the genetic engineering of arthropods as tools in the battle against vector-borne diseases such as malaria. Concerns about the use of these types of arthropods include the possibility of these insects themselves becoming pests.

Phillip J. Regal will provide a historical perspective for the audience, regarding the social and political aspects of decision-making involving GEOs. He will consider the long, problematic history of confused scientific analysis, which in the past has resulted in both extreme fear and complacency concerning the dangers of GEOs.

Lastly, Anne R. Kapuscinski will discuss the risk assessment of GEOs in ecosystems, and the controversy surrounding these evaluations. A deliberation of some of the available guidelines will follow, including reasons for their weakness In addition, the new Manual for Assessing Ecological and Human Health Effects of Genetically Engineered Organisms will be discussed. This manual is the result of a cooperative effort between scientists and the public interest community.

More ESA Annual Meeting information, including symposia schedules and other event details, is available on the ESA Homepage at: esa.sdsc.edu.

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NEWSROOM OPERATION
Members of the press are exempt from registration fees and are free to attend all meeting sessions. A staffed press room, including copier, fax, computer, printer, telephone, and area for interviews, will be available. Please contact Alison Gillespie 202-416-6181 or alison@esa.org more information or to register.

The Ecological Society of America (ESA) is a scientific, non-profit, over 7000-member organization founded in 1915. Through ESA reports, journals, membership research, and expert testimony to Congress, ESA seeks to promote the responsible application of ecological data and principles to the solution of environmental problems. ESA publishes four scientific, peer-reviewed journals: Ecology, Ecological Applications, Ecological Monographs, and Conservation Ecology. Information about the Society and its activities are published in the Society's newsletter, NewSource, and in the quarterly Bulletin.



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