SciDev.Net

Scientists and farmers from Peru and Ethiopia will defend agrobiodiversity through the exchange of scientific and traditional knowledge.

South African researchers are probing the AIDS-fighting potential of local plants, signalling a new alliance with healers.

A successful bid by Peru to block patents based on its indigenous knowledge could inspire other nations in the fight against biopiracy.

Peru has modified its intellectual property laws to bolster a trade deal with the US — but critics say the move could encourage biopiracy.

The region of Cusco in Peru has enacted a law banning the use and patenting of natural resources without local permission.

Almost a third of medicinal plants could become extinct, risking lives and highlighting the need to provide incentives for protecting them.

Researchers have found that more than half the plants in west Nepal have medicinal use — higher than that reported in previous studies.

African science leaders say an intellectual property blueprint will not work in its current form.

Native populations know a trick or two when it comes to climate change, and this should contribute to policymaking, urges a new report.

A round-up of news from or about South Asia for the period 1–15 March 2008.

A round up of news from or about Sub-Saharan Africa for the period 25 February–12 March 2008.

 

Arguments over ownership of animal genetic resources are delaying vital conservation efforts, say experts.

A research and development centre for Arab Bedouins has been reopened in southern Israel's Negev desert.

Developing countries should create legislation on indigenous genetic resources or risk losing out to developed nations, say experts.

Clinical trials of a traditional medicine to treat HIV are set to begin this month in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa.

An increase in the use of traditional medicine has prompted Southern African countries to resolve to develop safety guidelines.

China has launched a long-term development plan to boost research and innovation in traditional Chinese medicine.

Peru has created an online public register for research on the country's biodiversity.

A Peruvian proposal to create 'passports' for genetic resources has been backed by experts from 25 countries.

By targetting the early stages of malaria infection, a compound derived from tree bark could help fight the disease, say researchers.