The acquisition of genetic resources, or of traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources, in a country that is a party to the Nagoya Protocol.

The maintenance and management of a collection for conservation purposes, including storage of resources or quality/phytopathological checks, and verification of material upon acceptance should therefore not be considered as utilization as such. Subsequent utilization of the genetic resource may, however, fall under the Regulation. For this reason, it is advisable to carefully preserve information regarding the source of the material and the date of access, and to transfer this information to subsequent users.

Material of plant, animal, microbial or other origin containing functional units of heredity and of actual or potential value. Derivatives may also be considered genetic resources under certain conditions, even if they do not contain functional hereditary units: proteins, lipids, enzymes, RNA and organic compounds such as flavonoids, essential oils and plant resins. Human genetic resources are not included, but the human microbiome is.

An access permit issued by a competent authority as evidence that the genetic resource(s) it covers has been accessed in accordance with prior informed consent (PIC) and that mutually agreed terms (MAT) have been established for the user and the use specified therein. The non-confidential parts of the IRCC are published on the ABS Clearing-House website.

Agreement (contract) between a provider of genetic resources or associated traditional knowledge and a user, defining the conditions for the utilization of genetic resources and the sharing of benefits. There may be additional requirements for subsequent users or changing the intent of use, for example product development and commercialization.

Approval, by the authorities of the material-providing country, of access to and utilization of genetic resources. PIC is issued at the time of access as evidence of compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Knowledge held by an indigenous or local community that is relevant for the utilization of genetic resources, and which is described as such in the mutually agreed terms (MAT) applicable to the utilization of genetic resources.

Conducting research and development (R&D) on the genetic and/or biochemical composition of genetic resources, including through the application of biotechnology. This encompasses basic and applied research. Under the EU ABS Regulation, the mere preservation, transfer, or trading of genetic resources without additional research and/or development is not considered utilization. Furthermore, purely descriptive work in phenotype-based research such as morphological analysis or screening does not in itself constitute utilization.