What you need to know about Access and Benefit Sharing and the Nagoya Protocol


Philip Essen, Curator of Botany and Horticulture at Chester Zoo welcomed 23 delegates from 11 gardens to Chester Zoo. Philip explained how the horticultural interest at the Zoo had changed from formal public parks gardens and landscapes to conservation of broad range of species and planting more geographically relevant displays related to the animal collections.

Glasshouse and polytunnels of over 1,500m sq, which were once used to grow over 100,000 bedding plants, now house a number of rare and threatened plants and 5 National Plant collections, including orchids, nepenthes and cacti. Zoo horticulturalists also grow some of the plants used to feed the animals.

During the day our speakers went onto explain the development, understanding and use of the CBD, ABS and Nagoya Protocol legislation. It was highlighted that the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is the most widely signed convention in the World; The Nagoya Protocol has been signed by over 50% of countries.

Delegates were reminded that ‘benefit sharing’ does not necessarily mean money. Much of the horticultural commercial use of plant material actually realises little money but offering training can offer more value.

There remains some need of clarification on terminology and what is in and out of scope. Due diligence is key and the authority tasked with enforcement, The Dept for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy will seek to support those aiming to become compliant, rather than enforcement as a first option.

The speakers kindly offered to develop some brief answers to FAQ relating to ABS and the Nagoya Protocol and their talks offer useful resources and websites, and will be posted here when available.

BGCI ABS Learning Tool

BGCI, in collaboration with the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, has created a suite of learning modules on access and benefit sharing, essential for those working in botanic gardens. The modules take you step by step through the role of the CBD, the history of the Nagoya Protocol and important articles of the Protocol, as well as providing essential information for preparation and practical implementation. After every module there is a quick quiz to test your knowledge.