Contained use of genetically modified micro-organisms GMM (amend. Directive 90/219/EEC)

OBJECTIVE: to rectify the shortcomings of Directive 90/219/EEC in the light of scientific progress and new experience while guaranteeing the same level of protection for the environment and human health. CONTENT: the proposal for a Council directive provides for: - notification procedures and requirements to be linked to the risk of operations involving the use of genetically-modified micro-organisms. Provision is made for four risk classes, taking account of scientific knowledge and international experience; - administrative procedures to be simplified, provided that this does not compromise safety; - minimum containment and control measures applicable to each risk class to be specified at a later date in order to guarantee harmonization and adequate environmental protection; - the possibility of introducing other derogations for safe genetically-modified micro-organisms in order to safeguard rapid adaptation to technical progress and avoid unreasonable administrative charges for users; - all the Annexes to be amended under a regulatory committee procedure, which will increase flexibility. In addition to the main changes outlined above, the proposal also updates certain technical sections of the directive in the light of scientific and technical progress.�