Ecolex Logo
The gateway to
environmental law
Search results » Literature

European patents step closer

Corporate author
GRAIN
Journal/Series
Seedling | Vol. 14(3); 2 - 5; 4 p.
Date
1997
Source
IUCN (ID: ANA-061680)
Publisher | Place of publication
GRAIN - Genetic Resources Action International | Barcelona, Spain
Language
English
Country/Territory
European Union
Subject
Wild species & ecosystems
Keyword
Biotechnology Intellectual property rights/patents Ethics and environment
Abstract

Challenging the global trend to strengthen intellectual property rights regimes remains a high priority for those campaigning against the privatisation of life. The EU is currently defining its own reinterpretation of the WTO TRIPs agreement with proposed legislation dubbed, 'The Life Patents Directive'. The proposals which go way beyond the minimum requirements under TRIPS would allow patenting of plants, animals and parts of humans. Here GRAIN assesses recent developments in Europe and looks at the international implications.