An overview of the international regulatory frameworks that influence the conservation and use of underutilized plant species

"An overview of the international regulatory frameworks that influence the conservation and use of underutilized plant species" was prepared by the Global Facilitation Unit for Underutilized Species (GFU), in cooperation with the Genetic Resources Policy Initiative (GRPI). This publication is an effort of the GFU to set the scene and provide an instrument for policy and decision-makers. The principal objective of this study is to review and analyze some of the important international policy instruments that affect the conservation and extended use of underutilized plant species. It examines international treaties and conventions and, where necessary, some regional treaties and regulatory instruments. This is done with the aim of identifying gaps or constraints that impede the conservation and extended use of underutilized plant species and also to highlight opportunities that these legal frameworks offer to enhance the conservation and greater use of these species.