Dr Siva Thambisetty was recently interviewed for a feature article in Nature regarding a new international treaty for the high seas governing marine genetic resources. The feature explores how scientific practice may need to change in response to the demands for more equitable exploitation of the ocean genome.The treaty seeks to close a 'giant gap' in the existing network of international and national laws. "For the deal to go ahead, nations must agree to a system for creating large marine sanctuaries on the high seas and must lay out rules for how industry operates in these waters. But by far the most contentious issue they will tackle is how to regulate the use of the genetic resources of the high seas — both the marine creatures themselves and their gene sequences."
Dr Thambisetty suggests that a conditional permit under international law, that reflects a balance between access to the genetic resources and benefit sharing could provide a way forward. Such an outcome requires scientists to lead the way in how resources are controlled and benefits apportioned. "Rather than resisting change, marine scientists need to step up to the mark, and accept the need for new research protocols" says Dr Thambisetty.
Read the Nature article in full.