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
Could biodiversity negotiations stifle research?
Biodiversity negotiations will greatly impact academics, and scientists must speak up before it is too late, warn Sikina Jinnah and Stefan Jungcurt.
30 January 2009
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Source: Science
'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
15 March 2007
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Does Africa need benefit-sharing more than patents?
9 March 2006
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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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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
Peru and Ethiopia team up to defend biodiversity
Scientists and farmers from Peru and Ethiopia will defend agrobiodiversity through the exchange of scientific and traditional knowledge.
16 October 2009
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Revised laws 'could promote biopiracy' in Peru
Peru has modified its intellectual property laws to bolster a trade deal with the US — but critics say the move could encourage biopiracy.
Ecuadorian scientists reject new patent rule
1 October 2008
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Source: El Comercio
Information Services
Missed the Global Health Forum 2009?
Our blog, by SciDev.Net columnist Priya Shetty, will fill you in, as will our interview with the Global Forum's Gill Samuels
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Still drinking arsenic
Millions of people still drink arsenic-contaminated water despite scientists' solutions
Just add water
Policymakers must improve water storage to help developing countries adapt to climate change
