Science and Technology Options Assessment final report on bioethics
The STOA Group (Science and Technology Options Assessment) of the European Parliament has now completed their final report on bioethics. The report aims to supply a description of the evolving dynamics and gives an extensive catalogue of the ethical concerns and reserves raised in relation to biotechnology. The document comprises a general introduction to the subject, followed by a report on "Direct Ethical Implications" covering nine topics: Mapping the human genome; prenatal diagnosis; genetic screening; human embryo research; foetal tissue transplants; in vitro fertilisation; gene therapy; transgenic animals; and patenting life forms. "Indirect Ethical Implications" are similarly treated, for eight topics: Biological warfare; environmental release of GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms); contained use of GMMs (Genetically Modified Microorganisms); animal growth hormones; economics of biotechnology; agriculture; novel foods; pollution control, waste treatment and environmental management.