MEPA has received a grant of $116,000 from the Global Environment Facility of the United Nations Environment Programme to set up a framework for the management of genetically modified organisms at national level.

GMOs are organisms in which the genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination. GMOs can be bacteria, fungi, animals, plants and viruses, with the exception of human beings. Regulation in this area is important in order to protect human health and the environment from the possible adverse effects of the products of modern biotechnology.

Malta has obligations to set up a National Biosafety Framework, both under the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety of the Convention on Biological Diversity as well as through a number of EU regulatory instruments. The GEF grant will work towards the fulfilment of these international obligations and the national obligations that stem from them.

So far, a detailed work plan complete with timetables and budget has been agreed by Malta and UNEP, data has been gathered, and experts identified to assist with the project. Legislation to implement the Cartagena Protocol in Malta has been drafted and MEPA has to organise various workshops and seminars in the run up to the formulation of a National Biosafety Framework for Malta. This framework is expected to include a description of the regulatory regime, the system to handle applications, monitoring and enforcement systems and any mechanisms for promoting and facilitating public awareness, education and participation.

The project is expected to be completed in the coming months.