New rules agreed upon this week by the European Parliament now allow individual governments to restrict or ban growing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on their own territory––even if it is allowed by the European Union (EU).

Not only will the cultivation of GMO crops be governed by member states, but there will also be a clear process in place––and improved safeguards––for the authorization of GMOs at the EU level. Member states will also be responsible for ensuring that GMO crops do not contaminate other products. “Buffer zones” between neighboring countries have been suggested to prevent cross-border contamination of crops.

You can read more about the new decision on the European Parliament’s official website.