Convention on Biological Diversity (1992)

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), also referred to as the Biodiversity Convention, was adopted in 1992. There are currently 191 parties to the Convention, and it has been signed by 168 nations as well as the EU.

The CBD has three coequal goals:

• Conservation of biological diversity
• Sustainable use of its components
• Fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources

Biological diversity encompasses

• The diversity of ecosystems
• Diversity of species
• Genetic diversity within species

Important elements of the Biodiversity Convention address the following issues: identifying and monitoring biodiversity; conserving biodiversity; research, training and public education and awareness; regulating access to genetic resources and ensuring that the benefits of their use are shared in a fair and equitable manner, in most cases through the utilization of genetic resources; transfer of technology, scientific cooperation and the exchange of information.