on GMO FREE CYPRUS

The Cyprus Green Party points out that:

• The full consequences of the introduction of GMOs into the environment are yet to be witnessed and adequately studied

• Cyprus, a relatively small island with a secluded ecosystem, will not be able to effectively protect its environment from GMO contamination

• Due to the multi fraction of Cyprus’ limited, available land for cultivation, safety precautions from GMO crops cannot be applied (e.g. safety zones between GMO and non-GMO crops)

• Adequate control over the growth and distribution of GMO seeds cannot be guaranteed.

• GMO contamination of non-GMO crops is inevitable

• Liability for GMO contamination or side effects has not been legally ensured to lie with the biotechnology companies

• The organic and non-GMO crop-farming sector is in danger of being liable for GMO contamination of its own crops, with economical and social repercussions.

• Such GMO contamination can be a threat to the indigenous flora and fauna, which is already very fragile and limited

• Even if these products prove to be dangerous in the future there will be no possible way to destroy them and their bi-products

• As a general rule products that have not been adequately tested and declared safe for human and animal consumption should not be freely released into the environment (precautionary principle)

And requests that

• Legislation is passed to prohibit the importation of GMO seeds in Cyprus

• The island of Cyprus be declared a GMO free zone

• Laws demanding explicit labeling of products that contain GMOs be implemented without any further delay

• Organic farming be encouraged