Who is liable if self-spreading biotechnology causes transboundary harm?
With engineered gene drives and similar techniques, the genes of
wild-living species, pathogens, and crop plants can soon be modified
directly in the environment. This might help address pressing public
health, environmental, and food security problems. However, these
techniques may also spread across national borders. Looking at both
states and private actors, this book studies the rules of international
law on the prevention of, and liability for, adverse transboundary
effects caused by self-spreading biotechnology. Through an in-depth
analysis of the relevant treaties and custom, it shows that
international law is not yet equipped to cope with the challenges ahead.