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

The release of genetically engineered materials into the environment is primarily regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The USDA is responsible for overseeing the agricultural aspects, including the field testing and commercialization of genetically engineered organisms, to ensure they do not pose a risk to agriculture or environmental health. The EPA, on the other hand, evaluates the potential environmental impacts of such materials and determines if they are safe for release, focusing on matters related to environmental protection.

Understanding the roles of these agencies is crucial, as they work in tandem to address different facets of regulation relating to genetically engineered organisms, ensuring that both food safety and environmental integrity are maintained. The other agencies listed, such as the NIH (National Institutes of Health), CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), AEC (Atomic Energy Commission), FDA (Food and Drug Administration), and PHS (Public Health Service), do play roles in public health and safety, but they do not primarily focus on the environmental release of genetically engineered materials.