Regulating transgenic cow research Scientists at AgResearch must
apply for approval to work with transgenic animals. If their
application is approved, they follow strict guidelines for care
and containment of the animals. Transgenic cows are new
organisms In New Zealand, transgenic cows are classed as new
organisms and are regulated by the Hazardous Substances and New
Organisms (HSNO) Act. The HSNO Act is overseen by ERMA, the
Environmental Risk Management Authority. ERMA provides rules and
regulations for introducing any hazardous substances or new
organisms to New Zealand. Applying to work with transgenic
organisms Scientists at AgResearch must apply to ERMA before
they can begin their research. ERMA evaluates the benefits and
risks of any research and decides whether the work can begin. It
also encourages public submissions on applications. Public
submissions are a valuable means of contributing to decision-
making because they raise issues and provide a variety of
perspectives. Anyone can make a submission