One of the three objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity is the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources.  This objective, in combination with Article 15 of the CBD, is known as Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS).

Genetic resources can be from plants, animals or micro-organisms and may be used for a range of different purposes (e.g. basic research, commercialisation of products). Users of genetic resources may include research institutes, universities and private companies operating in various sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture, horticulture and biotechnology. 

Benefits derived from genetic resources may include the result of research and development carried out on genetic resources, the transfer of technologies which make use of those resources, participation in biotechnological research activities, or monetary benefits arising from the commercialisation of products based on genetic resources. One example of monetary benefits could be the sharing of royalties arising from patented products based on genetic resources.

There are currently no global-scale indicators which specifically relate to this area.  However, the CBD has adopted guidelines and established a working group to assist with the implementation of the access and benefit sharing provisions of the Convention:

Bonn Guidelines on Access to Genetic Resources and Fair and Equitable Sharing of the Benefits Arising out of their Utilization: These were adopted in 2002 to assist Parties when they are establishing administrative, legislative or policy measures or negotiating contractual arrangements on access and benefit-sharing.  The adoption of these Guidelines was one of the major achievements of COP 6 and they have been recognized as a useful first step of an evolutionary process in the implementation of relevant provisions of the Convention.  To view the Bonn guidelines click here.

Working Group on ABS: The aim of the ABS Working Group is to elaborate and negotiate an international regime on access to genetic resources and benefit-sharing under the CBD, with the adoption of an instrument(s) expected for COP 10 in 2010.