The application of genetic engineering techniques to agriculture, medicine and to a broad range of industrial processes has been enormously beneficial in recent years. However, the use of such techniques has raised much concern about the release of 'GEMs" (genetically engineered microorganisms) into the environment. The First International Conference on the Release of Genetically Engineered Microorganisma provided a forum for the discussion of this important issue; this book is a record of that meeting. With contributions by scientists from a diverse range of fields, the topics addressed * the engineering of organisms; * The deliberate and accidental release of GEMs; * the survival, persistence and distribution of GEMs in the environment; * methods for detection and monitoring of GEMs; * Considerations for the development of standards and regulations relating to the production and use of GEMs.