From seed to sequence: Dematerialization and the battle to (re)define genetic resources

摘要: Abstract In the past decade and a half, key international agreements have established systems of access benefit sharing that aim to obtain consent provide compensation for commercial use plants, animals, microorganisms—particularly those sourced in Global South. Yet rise genomics, gene editing synthetic biology may threaten legitimacy these agreements. Thus far, governed resources their physical form—as organisms situ or germplasm banks. However, both public private research are increasingly utilizing genomic sequences associated information. As result this shift, debates unfolding at fora such as Convention on Biological Diversity International Treaty Plant Genetic Resources Food Agriculture whether existing apply only, also sequence data other Some call uninhibited digital information (DSI) new form biopiracy, whereby used without permission from Others argue DSI should remain unencumbered by bureaucracy, it is biodiversity conservation food security. This paper examines over rationales justifications employed two sides, which loosely follow divide between South North. We find different conceptualizations genetic resources—particularly with regard when, where how value added—define respective positions. Outcomes important implications management global biodiversity, security issues equity justice actors biodiverse regions world.