Nagoya Protocol

The Nagoya Protocol regulates the collection and use of biological resources worldwide. This means that each country now has sovereign rights over its biological resources and can thus prevent so-called "biopiracy". But, as a result, the collection of bacteria, fungi or other microorganisms has become much more complicated since the Protocol came into force in 2014. At present, many scientists are uncertain about what they are and are not allowed to do and what permits are required and how to obtain them.

The DSMZ has compiled information to give you a better overview:

• A central aspect of the European Nagoya Protocol regulation is the so-called due diligence declaration. Scientists are required to exercise due care to determine whether their use of biological resources is legal and must make an unsolicited declaration to the national authority in connection with a funded research project. Here you will find an overview of how to proceed.

• DSMZ, as a Registered Collection certifies for its customers that the resources purchased from us are "Nagoya compliant" and provides the initial information needed for the EU due diligence declaration. Further information here.

• As a depositor, you must determine whether in the country where you intend to collect the genetic resources permits need to be issued in the form of a PIC, MAT, an IRCC or similar documentation. If this is the case you must obtain permits from the country of origin or local authority responsible before collecting genetic (microbial or other biological) resources or any other environmental sample that contains them. If you deposit a strain at the DSMZ, you must also provide these permits and/or documentation where they are required. Further information here.

• Background: The Nagoya Protocol regulates the access and benefit sharing (ABS) measures required by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Further information here.