Publication Details

Category Text Publication
Reference Category Journals
DOI 10.1007/s13127-012-0076-4
Document Shareable Link
Title (Primary) Import and export of biological samples from tropical countries–considerations and guidelines for research teams
Author Renner, S.C.; Neumann, D.; Burkart, M.; Feit, U.; Giere, P.; Gröger, A.; Paulsch, A.; Paulsch, C.; Sterz, M.; Vohland, K.
Source Titel Organisms Diversity & Evolution
Year 2012
Department NSF
Volume 12
Issue 1
Page From 81
Page To 98
Language englisch
Keywords samples; Collection; Export; Import; Legislation; Permits; Specimens; Convention on Biological Diversity CBD; Access and Benefit Sharing ABS; Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora CITES; European Union EU; Country of origin
Abstract

‘Biodiversity’ is increasingly perceived as an important resource for research and conservation, but also for economy. Conservation, access and sustainable use of biodiversity (genetic resources, species, samples) are negotiated on different political levels, resulting in an internationally binding legal framework. Resulting legislation is binding for all parties involved in biological sampling, i.e. researches and (and in italics) countries, and especially applies for tissue or DNA samples and dervied products thereof. Understanding and awareness of export and import permits for biological samples is increasingly important for biologists to perform research projects legally and timely. Nevertheless, some biologists are still exporting and importing biological samples ignoring or non-compliant with national and international legislation, conventions, and regulations. Resulting difficulties may not only cause serious problems during field work, but may also delay the export, import or exchange of samples. Comprehensive a priori information regarding legal requirements helps to avoid or at least diminish potential problems. We identified four major factors facilitating export/import permits: (1) good personal (mutually trusted) contacts in the country of origin, (2) understanding and compliance with all relevant laws and regulations; (3) access to information regarding knowledge on permits, regulations and laws including their circulation within the researcher communities; and (4) access to consistent and up to date regulation.
Persistent UFZ Identifier https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=12188
Renner, S.C., Neumann, D., Burkart, M., Feit, U., Giere, P., Gröger, A., Paulsch, A., Paulsch, C., Sterz, M., Vohland, K. (2012):
Import and export of biological samples from tropical countries–considerations and guidelines for research teams
Org. Divers. Evol. 12 (1), 81 - 98 10.1007/s13127-012-0076-4