The role of digital tools in supporting the implementation of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture in MERCOSUR countries

Abstract

The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) is a crucial agreement that aims to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of Plant Genetic Resources (PGRs). However, the effective implementation of the treaty in MERCOSUR countries requires the use of digital tools and technologies to support the collection, management, and sharing of PGRs’ data. This paper explores the role of digital tools in supporting the implementation of the ITPGRFA in Mercado Común del Sur (MERCOSUR) countries. The authors highlight: (i) the challenges and opportunities in collecting, managing, and sharing PGRs’ data in these countries; (ii) the potential of digital tools such as databases, digital platforms, and software applications in supporting the implementation of the ITPGRFA; (iii) the benefits of these digital tools in facilitating the exchange of PGRs’ data and promoting collaboration among stakeholders, including researchers, breeders, and farmers. However, the authors acknowledge that the use of digital tools in the implementation of the ITPGRFA raises important ethical issues such as data privacy, security, and ownership. Thus, recommendations for addressing these issues and ensuring the responsible and ethical use of digital tools in the implementation of the treaty has also been emphasized. The authors also underscore the need for ongoing research and development of digital tools to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of PGRs.