Access and Benefit Sharing ABS

Good practice for academic research on genetic resources

One of the three objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources, including by appropriate access to genetic resources and by appropriate transfer of relevant technologies.

According to the CBD and the Bonn Guidelines, when organisms or parts thereof from abroad are used for research purposes a specific code of conduct applies. However, many scientists assume that this doesn't apply for their work, since basic research has no commercial goal or profit. Nonetheless, they are requested to follow the voluntary steps as set out in the «CBD Bonn Guidelines on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising out of their Utilization».

Specifically tailored to the needs and means of academic basic research the Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT in collaboration with the Biodiversity Forum elaborated a brochure and a website with easy to understand information about the Access and Benefit Sharing system. Both sources explain the necessary steps to take for obtaining access to biological resources for research purposes and set out possibilities for benefit sharing within the academic context.

Contact: abs@scnat.ch

URL: http://abs.scnat.ch