Does your University undertake research using genetic resources? Do you support applications for such research, for example by supporting the development of proposals or the ethical or contracts review processes? If yes, then you are likely to need to know about the Nagoya Protocol, an important but little understood piece of legislation which forms part of research governance and due diligence.

The Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization (ABS) to the Convention on Biological Diversity is a supplementary agreement to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). It provides a transparent legal framework for the effective implementation of one of the three objectives of the CBD: the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources.

The Nagoya Protocol on ABS was adopted on 29 October 2010 in Nagoya, Japan and entered into force on 12 October 2014, 90 days after the deposit of the fiftieth instrument of ratification. Its objective is the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources, thereby contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.

By the end of the workshop participants will have an understanding of the scope of the Nagoya Protocol and be able to know which activities are subject to further requirements. They will be able to plan work to ensure they are legally compliant, as well as supporting other along the value chain.

Delegates will learn how to use the ABS Clearing House and know how to make Due Diligence Declarations. They will understand how to avoid breaking the law through learning the basics of all aspects of this legislation.

Anyone involved in supporting research and development of genetic resources (other than solely with human genetic material) would benefit from attending, for example contracts managers, pre award teams, research ethics and governance teams, and those who directly support academic colleagues with their research projects. No prior knowledge is required.

Agenda:

• Who we are
• ABS Simply Explained
• The Nagoya Protocol and key terms
• The ABS Clearing House
• The EU Regulation
• Exercising due diligence
• Case studies and discussion
• Support for EU users
• Approach to enforcement