The release of genetically engineered materials to the environment is regulated by which agencies?

The regulation of genetically engineered materials released into the environment falls under the purview of the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). The USDA is responsible for overseeing the agricultural aspects and ensuring that any genetically modified organisms (GMOs) used in agriculture are safe for both the environment and human health. This includes conducting assessments of the potential impact of these organisms on pest control, biodiversity, and agriculture.

The EPA's role complements that of the USDA by evaluating the environmental effects of genetically engineered organisms, focusing on potential risks to human health and the ecosystem. This includes assessing the effects of herbicide-tolerant crops on non-target species and evaluating the risks associated with the introduction of pests or pathogens that have been genetically altered.

The other agencies listed do not have the same direct regulatory authority over the environmental release of genetically engineered materials. For example, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) primarily regulates food safety rather than environmental impacts, while OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is more focused on workplace safety. NASA and NIH (National Institutes of Health) manage space exploration and health research, respectively, and do not directly engage in the regulation of genetically engineered organisms in an environmental context. Therefore, the USDA and EPA are