The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has launched a user survey as part of its Post Implementation Review (PIR) of the Nagoya (Compliance) Regulations 2015.
By way of quick reminder, these implement in UK law the access and benefit sharing (ABS) obligations of the Nagoya Protocol in respect of "genetic resources".
ABS legislation typically covers three key categories: (i) physical genetic resources (ie any material of plant, animal, microbial or other origin containing functional units of heredity) and their derivatives (ie naturally occurring biochemical compounds resulting from the gene expression or metabolism of biological or genetic resources, even if not containing functional units of heredity); and (ii) traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources.
This is a significant opportunity for UK stakeholders, particularly those involved in research and development related to genetic resources, to provide direct feedback on their experiences and influence future compliance measures.
Various sectors including cosmetics, foods and food additives, plant breeders, pharma and plant breeders have struggled with compliance. This is an opportunity for your voice to be heard.
Key details:
- Survey deadline: 20 December 2024.
- Survey access: click here to complete the survey.
- Supporting resources: DEFRA has provided a full list of survey questions in Word format to help you prepare responses before submission.
Why participate?
Your insights as a user of genetic resources are invaluable in shaping the future framework of the Nagoya Regulations. This is your chance to:
- Highlight any challenges faced during compliance.
- Suggest improvements to the current regulatory framework.
Need assistance?
If you have any questions or would like guidance in preparing your submission, please do not hesitate to reach out to Adrian Toutoungi or your usual Taylor Wessing contact.
