Protecting Today’s Investments for Tomorrow’s Innovations Trait Stewardship Protecting Today’s Investments for Tomorrow’s Innovations

Definition of Trait Stewardship Careful and responsible management of biotechnology traits in crops

Biotechnology vs. Trait Stewardship Broad term describing any technique using living organisms or parts of organisms to solve problems or develop new products The science behind GMOs Trait Stewardship Protecting the science in crop genes created using biotechnology

Benefits of Trait Stewardship Gives farmers access to beneficial traits now and in the future Ensures long-term effectiveness of traits Preserves consumer trust in products Encourages research and investment in future traits

Four Pillars of Trait Stewardship Licensing IRM Grain Channeling Intellectual Property

Licensing: Shared Responsibility and Ethics Trait Stewardship Licensing IRM Grain Channeling Intellectual Property Agreement between grower and seed company to manage traits appropriately Foundation of trust between growers and consumers

IRM: Preventing Resistance Trait Stewardship Licensing IRM Grain Channeling Intellectual Property Insect Resistance Management Government requires insect “refuge” areas be provided so insects don’t naturally become resistant to the trait

Grain Channeling: The Right Markets Trait Stewardship Licensing IRM Grain Channeling Intellectual Property Some traits not allowed in countries where consumers are fearful Grain must be kept separate – in channels

Intellectual Property: Combating Piracy Trait Stewardship Licensing IRM Grain Channeling Intellectual Property Traits are protected under patents Keeping seed or using it to breed plants is piracy – stealing