Back to search

FUGE-Funksjonell genomforskn.i Norg

Introduction of genetic engineering in aquaculture: ethical and ecological implications for science and governance

Awarded: NOK 4.1 mill.

Norway is a major producer of farmed marine products and therefore potentially a consumer of these technologies. However, using genetic engineering (GE) in aquaculture raises considerable ecological, ethical and socio-economic concerns. It is thus criti cal that appropriate ethical considerations and scientific investigations are made prior to commercialisation. In this proposed project, a multidisciplinary approach will be applied to analyse how the present frameworks for risk governance of GE in aquac ulture perform and how they may be improved. The experimental approach will extend ongoing projects at GenØk, Tromsø, and at UiTø, to include a study on the fate of DNA constructs administered to fish. We intend, based on results from the experimental s tudies and available scientific literature, to develop and test a conceptual framework for application of the Precautionary Principle. It proceeds with involvement of extended peer groups with the aim to take into account different p erspectives. The motivation for the proposed project is to attain an integrative understanding for governance of GEE in aquaculture that is scientifically reliable and socially robust. The results will be of importance for ecological understanding, for the use of ethical principles in evaluation of the technology, and is of high relevance in regulatory purposes.

Funding scheme:

FUGE-Funksjonell genomforskn.i Norg

Thematic Areas and Topics

No thematic area or topic related to the project