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

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

3. 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

4. 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

5. Four Pillars of Trait Stewardship
Licensing
IRM
Grain Channeling
Intellectual Property

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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