The development of genetic manipulation in recent years has caused both angst and excitement. The technology has the potential to solve world hunger and create cures for many of humanities ailments. However many have also expressed concern that our understanding of the potential of the technology to cause significant environmental harm is limited. The possibility that this harm could extend beyond national boundaries has led to the technology being discussed in the international environmental law arena. The Biosafety Protocolis a result of nations coming together to regulate so as to minimise the potential harm and maximise the potential gains from this emerging technology.