Safeguarding Plant Genetic Resources: Biodiversity Laws, ABS, and Biopiracy Prevention

¹ Department of Biotechnology, The Oxford College of Science, Bengaluru 560 102. Karnataka, India.
² Credora Life Sciences, Bengaluru 560043. Karnataka, India.
³ Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Science City of Muñoz, Central Luzon State University, Nueva Ecija, Philippines
⁴ College of Science, Al Baha University, Al Baha, 65779, Saudi Arabia
⁵ Department of Microbiology, PSGVP Mandal’s Shri S I Patil Arts, G B Patel Science and STKV Sangh Commerce College, Shahada, 425409, India.

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (Prof. Riyaz Sayyed); This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (Kavisa Ghosh)

Abstract

Plant genetic resources support sustainable agriculture, global food security, and biodiversity, yet they are often targets of biopiracy and illegal trade, leading to biodiversity loss. This review examines the critical role of biodiversity laws and Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) frameworks in safeguarding genetic resources. It discusses the legal mechanisms designed to protect biodiversity and ensure the equitable sharing of benefits from the use of genetic material. However, biodiversity conservation and sustainable use warrant harmonized policies that balance biodiversity preservation with scientific research and commercial interests and foster global cooperation to combat and prevent biopiracy. The review also highlights the challenges posed by biopiracy, emphasizing the need for stronger international and national regulations to prevent unauthorized exploitation.