Traceability Approaches for Marine Genetic Resources Under the Proposed Ocean (BBNJ) Treaty

Negotiations are underway for a new treaty the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity areas beyond national jurisdiction under United Nations Convention on Law Sea. Points contention in negotiation concern marine genetic resources questions monetary and/or non-monetary benefit sharing arising from their use. Tracing origin used scientific research, development commercialization may offer evidence needed to prove they came that is owed. Traceability complex multidisciplinary: involving legal, informatics considerations. We look at different traceability approaches within jurisdictions how these might provide lessons proposed treaty, using one few case studies available trace commercial resource jurisdiction. discuss this study relation existing legal frameworks including Nagoya Protocol other systems based open information materials, practice. conclude well-designed system tailored unique geographical, political jurisdictional characteristics could lead more equitable outcomes benefits resources. Our key recommendations any mechanism needs be light touch, integrated with such as bioinformatics databases not impose additional burdens users. Systems should designed improve knowledge ocean allow better measures developed. If negotiators engage sectors find workable policy solutions draft promote greater transparency data sectors, there chance mechanisms support sharing.