Benefit Sharing for the Use of Digital Sequence Information (DSI) 

Syllabus: GS3/ Environment & Conservation

In Context

• In the 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), discussions were held on topics like the multilateral system of benefit-sharing for the use of digital sequence information (DSI) of genetic resources.

About

• Digital sequence information (DSI) on genetic resources has become essential in biodiversity conservation and scientific research. 
• DSI refers to the digitalized genetic data of organisms, which is frequently used for research in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and biodiversity. However, with the growing reliance on DSI, questions around fair benefit-sharing, especially for local communities whose regions harbor valuable biodiversity, have gained prominence. 

What is Digital sequence information (DSI)?

• DSI encompasses the digital representation of genetic sequences that come from organisms’ DNA, RNA, or proteins. It allows researchers to study biodiversity and ecosystems digitally, analyze genetic makeup without needing physical samples, and expedite advancements in fields like genetics and biotechnology.
• Like DSI data can help understand pathogen structures, develop medicines, and aid conservation efforts.

Benefits 

• Accelerated Research: DSI enables rapid research by providing accessible genetic information for scientists and institutions worldwide.
• Conservation and Biodiversity Studies: DSI plays a key role in understanding and conserving biodiversity, especially for critically endangered species and supporting the prevention of species extinction.
• Pharmaceuticals and Agriculture: The digital nature of DSI enables research on plant genetics and potential medicines, benefitting industries that rely on genetic resources.
• Data Sharing and Collaboration: DSI databases, often publicly accessible, foster international collaboration, allowing for efficient knowledge sharing and contributing to global research initiatives.

Challenges of DSI

• Lack of Benefit-Sharing Framework:  Developing nations argue that open access to DSI allows developed nations to utilize genetic data for profit without providing fair compensation to the original resource-holding countries or local communities.
• Intellectual Property Issues: DSI can lead to patenting by companies or nations on products developed from genetic data, raising questions about intellectual property and the rights of source nations or communities.
• Conservation vs. Commercialization: DSI could either contribute to conservation or lead to the exploitation of biodiversity, depending on how the information is used and whether benefits are equitably shared.

Related Initiatives

• Nagoya Protocol: Part of the Convention on Biological Diversity, this protocol emphasizes fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources, although it does not fully address DSI.
• Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF): This framework, which includes DSI in target 13, aims to create a balanced approach to biodiversity conservation and benefit-sharing. It highlights the need for multilateral cooperation in managing DSI.
• Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) Mechanisms: Various ABS frameworks attempt to govern the use of genetic resources, including DSI. However, standardized international regulations for DSI remain a work in progress.

Source: DTE