Biodiversity data: The importance of access and the challenges regarding benefit sharing

Negotiations around the potential inclusion of biodiversity data within scope access and benefit sharing mechanisms international treaties on genetic resources have been contentious. Uncertainty persists which might be included impacts this important change ability to advance science. This special collection research, review, opinion articles provides a range evidence viewpoints contributing context these negotiations underlying scientific issues involved. Emerging themes include need for clarity subject sharing; recognition that open exchange substantial societal benefits; prognosis constraints will negatively impact research; consensus multilateral systems are preferable bilateral ones; emphasis further capacity building other forms enable wider use data.