Gene technology

Fimea supervises the use of genetically modified organisms (microbes, plants and animals) in contained use premises such as laboratories and greenhouses. Fimea also monitors how the genetically modified organisms affect health in situations in which they are deliberately released into the environment either in connection with research and development experiments, or as products. Fimea also issues statements on the use of gene technology and maintains the gene technology register.

Supervision of gene technology promotes the safe use of the technology while protecting environment and health of humans and animals.

Both the contained use and deliberate release of genetically modified organisms is subject to authorisation, and the Gene Technology Act (377/1995) regulates the authorisation process. Notifications and applications for authorisation for the contained use and deliberate release of genetically modified organisms are processed by the Board for Gene Technology (GTLK). Further information on the authorisation procedure and on material for the drafting of notifications and applications is available on the website of the Board for Gene Technology. Information on changes in the use of genetically modified organisms (e.g., the nature of the activity, premises available for use, information on the operators and those in charge of the operation) and on the termination of the activity must be submitted to the Board for Gene Technology.