Access to genetic resources - Australian National Botanic Gardens leads the way

The Australian National Botanic Gardens has joined with 28 botanic gardens from 21 countries to commit to a common policy on global access and sharing of genetic resources. The policy was developed from a pilot project initiated by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in 2001.

The Australian Botanic Gardens has taken a leading role among Australian botanic gardens by adopting practices that are consistent with the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity, held in Rio de Janeiro.

"This is an important step towards implementing our commitment to the Rio Convention" said Mr Robin Nielsen, Director of the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

"It will allow us to continue exchanging plant material with other international research organisations without compromising the right of Australians to benefit from our genetic resources" Mr Nielsen added.

The project aimed to develop guidelines for the world’s 2000 botanic gardens in the access to genetic resources. It sought a harmonised approach by botanical institutions on the exchange of botanical material and associated knowledge, in keeping with the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity.

For more information contact:

Paul Ziesing
Public Relations Officer
Australian National Botanic Gardens
Clunies Ross Street, Acton, ACT

Tel: (02) 6250 9538
Email paul.ziesing@deh.gov.au

29 May 2002