Q. Consider the following international agreements

1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture
2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
3. The World Heritage Convention

Which of the above has/have a bearing on the biodiversity?

• 1 and 2 only
• 3 only
• 1 and 3 only
• 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Notes:

• The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture–
  • It was adopted by the 31st session of the Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations on 3rd November 2001.
  • It is also known as the Seed Treaty.
  • India is a signatory to the treaty.
• The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification–
  • ​It is the sole legally binding international agreement linking environment and development to sustainable land management.
  • The convention was drafted and opened for signing in 1994. It became effective in 1996 after receiving 50 ratifications.
  • Aim: Its 197 Parties aim, through partnerships, to implement the Convention and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. 
• The World Heritage Convention-
  • ​Created in 1972, the primary mission of the Convention is to identify and protect the world’s natural and cultural heritage considered to be of outstanding universal value.
  • It is a Convention under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).