|
Work Group on Biodiversity Biological diversity, of enormous importance to humans, is decreasing worldwide. The areas with the highest diversity of species are often found in developing countries. They are inhabited by indigenous peoples who contribute in an important manner to the upkeep and conservation of local species. Indigenous people often know local medicinal plants and have bred resilient crops, which today grow increasingly important for pharmaceutical and agrarian industries. Through patenting, big concerns secure their rights to “inventions” that often result from the knowledge of indigenous farmers developed over centuries. Their intellectual property is not accepted and the farmers do not have a share of the huge profits, or only marginally so. The aim of the workgroup on biodiversity is to remain informed of the current developments, discussions and current campaigns in the areas of biodiversity, patent rights, biotechnology and genetic technology. Further activities are strongly influenced by the individual interests of the members. We could, for example, organise a film event or an exhibition on the topic, and there is also the possibility to write academic papers. Infoe already has a vast variety of material on these topics, which need to be updated. Are you interested in becoming involved? Do you have your own ideas and propositions? We look forward to your getting in contact with us. |