How to value marine DNA?

In this review, recent MSc graduates Tilde Krusberg and Lova Schildt set out to explore this question by identifying valuations of so-called "Marine Genetic Resources" (MGR). Together with their co-authors, Centre researchers Jean-Baptiste Jouffray, Erik Zhivkoplias and Robert Blasiak, they applied the typology of the IPBES Values Assessment and found that, although exceptions do exist, most studies articulate the value of MGR by estimating the monetary value of innovations in medicine that can be derived from marine organisms.

However, not all benefits of marine biotechnology can be articulated in monetary terms; better healthcare outcomes for patients can, for example, not be captured by the sales figures of marine-inspired medicine. Marine biotechnology represents a relatively recent addition to the rich history of humanity’s interactions with the ocean and its resources, and ensuring its place within a sustainable blue economy will require considering the many values associated with marine ecosystems. Therefore, there is a need for expanding the range of values captured in valuations of MGR to include also the direct benefits for people and planet generated by innovation which finds its inspiration in marine ecosystems.