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Biotechnology

What is biotechnology?

Biotechnology is a broad term for a group of technologies based on applying biological processes. It involves the use of living things or their derivatives to solve problems and make products.

Biotechnology has been with us for centuries. Traditional biotechnologies include fermentation applications such as beer, cheese, bread-making and cosmetics. It also includes animal and plant breeding techniques. The term "modern biotechnology" is used to describe recent research-based activities. It includes a range of techniques from DNA technology, molecular and cellular biochemistry through to gene technology. Genetic modification (GM) is only one specific aspect of modern biotechnology.

We usually use the OECD's statistical definition of biotechnology. This defines biotechnology as the application of science and technology to living organisms as well as parts, products and models thereof, to alter living or non-living materials for the production of knowledge, goods and services.

Links

• See our biotechnology links page for links to more information about biotechnology, including developments in policy and science in other countries.
• Find out about New Zealand's research and commercial strengths in biotechnology on the NZBio website.

New Zealand Biotechnology Strategy

The Government’s New Zealand Biotechnology Strategy was released in May 2003.

The Strategy was developed in response to the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification. The theme of the Biotechnology Strategy is "a foundation for development with care". The strategy is organised into three main areas:

• Community engagement - building understanding about biotechnology in the community and encouraging dialogue
• Growing the sector to enhance economic and community benefits
• Regulation that provides robust safeguards while allowing innovation

We work with other Government agencies and with science organisations in implementing the strategy.

Contact us

For more information about our work in biotechnology contact us at talk2us@morst.govt.nz or use our contact form.

Royal Commission on Genetic Modification

The development of a biotechnology strategy was one of the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification. Our other work arising from the Royal Commission includes support for the amendments to the HSNO Act and work related to the Royal Commission's recommendations on research priorities.

More on the recommendations of the commission and the Government's response to them on the Ministry for the Environment's website.