Topic Biotechnology
Humans use organisms for a wide variety of purposes, from specially bred animal and plant varieties in agriculture, bacteria and fungi in food production, viruses in medical research, to ornamental and medicinal plants in gardens. However, certain organisms can pose a threat to humans, animals and the environment. Therefore, genetically modified or pathogenic organisms and certain invasive alien species may only be used without authorisation in confined systems such as laboratories or greenhouses.
In focus
Products and Services
Indicators
Search and list of all indicators
Studies Biotechnology
Soil and Biotechnology Division
The division is responsible for the protection of our soils, for the remediation of contaminated sites and for biotechnology and genetic engineering
Media releases
Biotechnology: In brief
informs about the state of the environment and reveals the links between driving forces, pressures, environmental quality, impacts and responses.
Biotechnology: Dossiers
Activities in contained use
Activities with genetically modified organisms, alien organisms subject to compulsory containment or pathogenic organisms in contained use.
Experimental releases
Experimental releases of genetically modified organisms, pathogenic organisms or alien small invertebrates: Legal bases, competence, applications and authorisations.
Marketing
Marketing of GMOs, pathogenic organisms or alien small invertebrates: Legal bases, competence, applications and authorisations.
Monitoring of genetically modified organisms in the environment
Das BAFU hat die gesetzliche Aufgabe, ein Monitoring zum Nachweis von gentechnisch veränderten Organsimen (GVO) in der Umwelt aufzubauen. Dazu führt es Erhebungen und gezielte Untersuchungen durch und entwickelt geeignete Methoden, um eine mögliche Gefährdung der Umwelt oder Beeinträchtigung der Biodiversität erkennen zu können.
International affairs and protocols
Biotechnology: Legislation and enforcement
Soil and Biotechnology Division
Soil and Biotechnology Division
Monbijoustrasse 40
3003 Berne