strategy
Compiling data base of wild animal genetic resources
Context:
One estimate suggests that a quarter of the Earth's species are at risk of extinction within the next thirty years. This is primarily because of loss of natural habitat, though overhunting and pollution also play an important role. All organisms such as animals constitute, to various degrees, an invaluable part of ecosystem vitality. In addition, and apart from ethical grounds, the biodiversity contained in animals vulnerable to extinction comprises a genetic pool for traits that can be exploited to respond to unforeseen future needs. One approach that may conserve wild animal genetic diversity by, for instance, helping to avoid inbreeding, is to compile a database of wild animal genetic resources. Implementation:
This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities. Constrains:
Decreasing genetic diversity of animals Facilitates:
Using animal genetic resourcesDecreasing animal genetic defectsConserving animal genetic resourcesSupporting people with genetic defectsPreserving genetic diversity of animalsExpanding ex-situ conservation methods for genetic resources Facilitated by:
Using genebanksRecording trade in speciesStudying quality of domestic livestockProviding training on collection of animal genetic material Problems:
Corporate control of genetic materialDeclining breeds of domesticated animals
Decreasing genetic diversity of animals
Denial of rights of domestic animals
Genetic defects and diseases
Lack of gene banks
Underutilized animal genetic resources
Vulnerability of world genetic resources
Organizations:
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations United Nations Environment Programme United Nations Conference on Environment and Development Subjects:
Resources → Resources Biosciences → Genetics
Zoology → Animals
Geography → Wild
Information → Data, codes
Type Classification:
D: Detailed strategies Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
