Evaluation of the Concept of a List for the BWC
Abstract
This paper examines the concept that a list of specific proscribed biologic materials or categories of proscribed materials has utility as a tool for verification of the Biological Weapons Convention. Using the criteria that a useful list has to be objective and complete or all-inclusive, we compared existing proposed lists, evaluated current biological, genetic engineering, and natural products research for impact on the ability to prepare a list useful for verification. None of the proposed lists examined were complete, nor was any list of specifically defined materials; new organisms are discovered, known organisms are reclassified and renamed, genetic engineering enables changing trait expression or moving traits between organisms, and natural products research discovers new pharmacologically active materials. Any list that proscribes materials by categories or classes (or any other criterion) is so large that it is unwieldy and impractical to use as a tool for verification. Such a list lacks currency and objectivity; on the cutting edge of research, much information needed to determine whether an organism or strain is proscribed is unavailable. We have not been able to demonstrate the utility of a list as a verification tool; rather, lists have little use as such a tool. Genetic engineering, Verification, Biological warfare agents, Natural products, Lists, Biological weapons convention, Biological research, Toxins.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADB175230
Entities
People
- Donna T. Palmer
- Joseph D. Kittle
- Leo L. Laughlin Jr.
Organizations
- Battelle Memorial Institute