Biotech Updates

Nagoya Protocol on Genetic Resources Achieves 64 Signatures

September 30, 2011

Cape Verde, Mozambique, Slovenia, and Togo joined the 60 others that have signified their support to ratify the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from Their Utilization to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The Nagoya Protocol will enter into force 90 days after deposit of the fiftieth instrument of ratification.

Once the Nagoya Protocol has been implemented, it will provide a strong legal certainty and transparency for both provider and user of genetic resources, fostering fair and equitable sharing of benefits from their use. The Protocol will build new incentives to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable development and human well-being.

Read the press release at http://www.cbd.int/doc/press/2011/pr-2011-09-28-abs-en.pdf.