SciDev.Net
Science and Development Network
News, views and information about science, technology and the developing world
Bioprospecting — collecting biological material for commercial use — can encourage conservation. But it has also been accused of being a form of intellectual piracy, with little compensation for local people.
(Photo credit: WHO/P. Virot)
Opinions and Analysis
'Biopiracy' requires reasoned treatment
The fight against biopiracy must embrace both legitimate science and social justice if biodiversity itself is not to suffer.
How local knowledge can boost scientific studies
More should be done to strengthen ties between formal scientific research and informal grassroots innovations, says Anil Gupta.
15 March 2007
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EN
Does Africa need benefit-sharing more than patents?
9 March 2006
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EN
Policy Briefs
The case for joint action on biotechnology in Africa
What are the main issues that African nations face in forthcoming negotiations on biotechnology and biosafety?
4 June 2007
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EN
Source: The International Institute for Sustainable Development
Bioprospecting: legitimate research or 'biopiracy'?
A growing number of critics of 'bioprospecting' complain that companies often fail to adequately compensate holders of traditional knowledge, and that patents on products developed in this way are actually a form of intellectual piracy.
News and Features
Ecuadorian scientists reject new patent rule
Ecuadorian researchers disagree with an article in the new constitution that bans patenting products related to the country's biodiversity.
1 October 2008
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ES
Source: El Comercio
UN roadmap paves way for curbing biopiracy
Following the UN biodiversity conference, countries have agreed a roadmap to negotiate the access and sharing of genetic resources.
South Asia News in brief: 1–15 March 2008
20 March 2008
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EN
Sub-Saharan Africa news in brief: 25 Feb–12 Mar 2008
13 March 2008
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EN
Information Services
The global food crisis
A series of articles debate key issues such as GM technology, media reporting and agricultural policymaking
