8185 Marine Genetic Resources of the Global Commons: Sowing Discord or Solutions?

Friday, February 17, 2012: 2:30 PM
Room 201 (VCC West Building)
Marjo Vierros , United Nations University, Institute of Advanced Studies, Whistler, BC, Canada
This talk will provide a legal perspective on who owns marine genetic resources beyond national jurisdictions. She will describe two conflicting interpretations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The inability to find middle ground is preventing a solution to safeguard marine biodiversity. This session will provide a path for scientists to become involved in developing potential solutions that retains access for research while contributing to global conservation.