The present Act constitutes the basic legal framework regarding the use of genetic resources in Greenland. Genetic resources means genetic materials, i.e., any material derived from plants, animals or micro-organisms, or from other origins containing functional genetic units, of current or potential value. It includes constituents of genetic resources, derivatives, and pathogens. The objectives of the Act are: 1) the conservation of biological diversity; 2) sustainable use of genetic resources; 3) fair and equitable distribution of benefits arising from the use and exploitation of genetic resources and traditional knowledge related to genetic resources held by indigenous people and local communities. The Act shall ensure proper access to genetic resources and the transfer of knowledge and technologies related to genetic resources. The Government has a sovereign right to dispose of and use Greenland's genetic resources and to give others access to collect and use Greenland's genetic resources. The Act lays down specific rules regarding traditional knowledge on genetic resources; authorizations for the use of genetic resources; genetic resources from other countries; use authorizations and agreements; publication of studies and research; patents; etc. It replaces the 2006 Act by shifting from a general focus on biological resources to a comprehensive ABS framework for genetic resources, explicitly integrating biotechnology, traditional knowledge, and the Nagoya Protocol, while strengthening state control and international compliance.
Groenland (Danemark) · 2016-06-03