Sharing the benefits of taxonomic research: time to upgrade the model

Abstract

Many permits for collecting biological samples have simple conditions, such as returning specimens and information. In meeting them researchers are ‘sharing benefits’ in the context of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). However, the documents giving such conditions are often poorly connected to long-term research by many individuals, leading to tail-off of delivery. The conditions and the benefits shared are also often ineffective for biodiversity conservation because of inefficient linkage to environmental managers and policy priorities. A new model is needed to better manage permit conditions so that users of biological and genetic material are aware of the agreements and can deliver with minimal additional effort, and to provide better linkage to application in provider countries. Many of the informatics tools to permit this are already available. The paper will outline the elements of the model and suggest means of implementation.