The Chilean Supreme Court has ruled that is illegal to approve a hydroelectric plant without first conducting environmental studies.

The International Union of Forest Research Organisations says there's too little focus on forests in the Rio Summit draft agreement.

A review of experimental GM insect releases points to 'scientific deficiencies' and lack of openness in regulatory approvals.

Recent scandals have exposed weaknesses in India's ability to police its own doctors as they participate in international drug trials.

Indian initiative toward open access wins laurels, despite lacklustre government support.

 

A report on solar geoengineering argues that extensive research and good governance are essential for safe use of this fledgling technology.

A new trial has found that tenofovir gel, previously found to be effective, does not prevent HIV infection.

Science research organisations called for a code of conduct on the ethical practice of science at last week's World Science Forum.

An Egyptian scientist is suing Nature for publishing an article that he says damaged his reputation, and the case has begun in the UK.

Joining forces would save countries money on clinical trials, and speed up drug development for neglected diseases, says a report.

An initiative launched by major patent holders will improve access to neglected disease research, but only 49 countries will freely benefit.

A new website aims to improve medical ethics in developing nations by providing information and a forum for discussion.

A step towards formalising the ethical responsibilities of scientists has been taken at a global assembly of scientific organisations.

A radical group has taken responsibility for terror attacks on Mexican nanotechnology experts.

Indian scientists have called for a dedicated body to police scientific ethics to tackle the growing number of cases of research misconduct.

The future of key research projects across West Africa is uncertain as France steps up its security alert following al-Qaeda attacks.

An official inquiry into trials of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines has unearthed ethical violations.

A dispute between two scientists over the possible presence of GM corn in Peru has moved a step forwards, but there is no final verdict yet.

Developing countries should extend regulation on GM organisms to synthetic biology, say campaigners.

Two of the Philippines' seven Bt eggplant trials have been suspended, following the destruction of thousands of the plants.