Including Digital Sequence Data in the Nagoya Protocol Can Promote Data Sharing.

Area of Science:

• Biodiversity Law and Policy
• Bioinformatics
• Conservation Science

Background:

• The Nagoya Protocol (NP) governs benefit-sharing from biological resources under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
• Concerns exist that applying NP benefit-sharing to digital sequence information (DSI) may impede scientific research.
• Current frameworks address physical samples but not necessarily the data derived from them.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a framework for formalised benefit-sharing of digital sequence information (DSI).
• To demonstrate how equitable benefit-sharing can foster research participation and data sharing.
• To address concerns regarding the impact of NP on DSI research.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the Nagoya Protocol and its implications for digital sequence information (DSI).
• Development of a conceptual model for equitable benefit-sharing agreements.
• Examination of three case studies illustrating practical applications of benefit-sharing.

Main Results:

• Formalised benefit-sharing for DSI can increase willingness to participate in research and share data.
• Equitable collaboration between sample providers and researchers can be fostered through clear agreements.
• Preventing exploitative practices is crucial for building trust and long-term partnerships.

Conclusions:

• Equitable benefit-sharing agreements for DSI can enhance global research collaborations.
• Implementing fair practices ensures that those providing biological samples and associated knowledge benefit.
• This approach supports sustainable research and equitable outcomes in biodiversity research.