DSI Framework Secured at COP16, Paving the Way for Equitable Benefit-Sharing
Today at COP16 in Cali, Colombia, parties reached a landmark agreement on the fair use and benefit-sharing of digital sequence information (DSI). This breakthrough marks a significant step forward in global biodiversity efforts, creating new pathways for financing conservation and supporting countries, Indigenous peoples and local communities that safeguard vital ecosystems. Dr. Cristián Samper, Managing Director and Leader for Nature Solutions, Bezos Earth Fund, said the following:
“The agreement reached at COP16 on digital sequence information (DSI) marks a turning point in global biodiversity efforts and a significant victory for the countries and communities that safeguard the world’s most vital ecosystems.
With this agreement, countries have created a new pathway to channel sustainable funding toward conservation efforts, helping bridge the biodiversity financing gap and empowering nations and Indigenous peoples and local communities to manage their natural resources for the long term. The Cali Fund will be central to this mission, directing resources where they are most needed, particularly to Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities who protect biodiversity on the ground.
Reaching this agreement shows the power of persistence and cooperation. It proves that, even in the face of complex challenges, leaders can align the interests of science, business, and biodiversity-rich countries to ensure that the benefits of innovation flow equitably to all.
The Bezos Earth Fund applauds the commitment shown by all parties involved in reaching this agreement. We look forward to supporting the development of a fair and transparent benefit-sharing mechanism and ensuring that these funds are directed where they are needed most – on the ground, where conservation efforts happen.
As COP16 comes to a close, we are filled with renewed hope. The decisions made today can set us on a path toward a sustainable future for both nature and people, but only if we act with urgency and purpose.”