Convention ratified

THE CONVENTION on biological diversity, which was signed by 167 nations, came into force on December 29, 1993, with only 37 countries having ratified it. Many countries that have signed are in the process of securing ratification.

The signatories pledge to make sustainable use of the world's plants, animals and organisms. The treaty also seeks to ensure equitable sharing of benefits from the use of genetic resources. Besides, developed countries will assist poorer nations in carrying out conservation programmes through the use of appropriate technologies and the provision of "new and additional financial resources".