Virtual participation available through this link https://cbd.interactio.com/wwkk-rr2x-6lg2

Many countries aspire to develop a bio-economy that will create socio-economic opportunities through equitable and sustainable use of biodiversity. What are the elements necessary to promote biodiversity-based innovation? What can be done to help develop the commercial potential of academic research?  How can research collaborations between academia and companies contribute?  What kind of enabling environment, and ABS systems, can best help support sustainable socio-economic development through biodiversity-based research and innovation?  

This event will present the experiences and views of businesses which have developed from academic research, on what is needed to support that transition and to encourage collaborations between academia and the private sector. The experiences and learnings gained from developing a research and innovation-based  bio-economy in southern Africa will also be shared. This will be followed by a panel discussion on the factors supporting and hindering the development of bio-based businesses, and academic-business research collaborations,  and the kind of ABS system that would best support development of a sustainable bio-economy based on research and innovation.