A Harmonized System for Benefit-Sharing from DSI

DSI data is stored in a variety of databases, and most researchers collect and use data that cut across different sectors, from agriculture, through human health to the conservation of wild species. For example, the International Nucleotide Sequence Database Collaboration (INSDC) is the largest repository of raw DSI data globally in which sequences generated from biological samples originating in all parts of the world are deposited. The INSDC does not separate out data from sovereign territories, marine habitats, plant species, or pathogens. Other databases can “specialize” in certain types of data, but vast amounts of data of different types are stored together in the larger databases. In fact, the most valuable databases for researchers are those that combine data, regardless of origin, because the data become useful when compared to other data. In isolation, a single segment of DSI has little value for researchers. Yet, with the parallel discussions under CBD, BBNJ, WHO, and ITPGRFA, multiple benefit-sharing mechanisms could apply to the same DSI data.