Factsheet: The issue of Digital Sequence Information on Genetic Resources

October 17, 2024

Digital Sequence Information refers to genetic data such as nucleotide sequence, protein sequence of organisms. It finds use in multiple areas, but its nonphysical nature complicates the traditional methods of managing access and benefit-sharing established under the Convention on Biological Diversity to handle tangible genetic resources

COP16 will finalise the mechanism for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from use of DSI. Negotiators will set down a system for operationalization of the mechanism, as well as for a clear framework for both monetary and non-monetary benefits

Recommendations will address questions such as how financial contributions from users of DSI should be calculated and how they should be shared equitably with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities