Patents on seeds

Since 1990, the European Patent Office (EPO) has granted many patents related to conventionally-bred (non-GM) plants. These patents are of questionable legality and could begin to restrict farmers' access to conventionally bred seeds.

In May 2012, the European Parliament adopted a resolution calling for the EPO to stop granting patents on conventionally bred plants.

GM plants are routinely patented, granting monopoly rights over the seeds: the EPO has granted 1602 patents on GM plants since 1990.

To oppose patents on seeds sign the Avaaz petition

Resources

↑ Top