I would like to analyze some of the international aspects of biotechnology and its regulation. To preface my discussion, I will note first some some general points.

First is the question of "technology assessment" for new technology. Although much has been said about technology assessment, most actual assessment has been of old or established technology. Biotechnology is brand new; it has grown up since the development of both environmental law and the notion of technology assessment. Therefore, it presents the question of whether and how one can perform technology assessment for a new technology.