Name(s):
Uncompensated appropriation of native knowledge
Usurpation of indigenous knowledge for profit
Nature
The majority of 'wild type' reproductive and genetic raw material used in western laboratories is obtained from crops and wild plants in undeveloped countries, whose farmers typically reap no reward from the financial gains made by western corporations in their genetic patents. Pharmaceutical companies are turning to indigenous knowledge-based forms of healing for new medicinal plants and they are walking away with million dollar deals. In general, very little money goes back to the communities and the healers who shared their knowledge.