The term was introduced by Otto Frankel and Erna Bennett for a technical conference on the exploration, utilization and conservation of plant genetic resources, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the International Biological Program (IBP), held in Rome, Italy, 18–26 September 1967.
Before the introduction of the term, the Russian scientist Nikolai Vavilov initiated comprehensive studies on plant genetic resources and conservation work in the 1920’s.
[5] There are two complementary ways to conserve genetics resources: Policies are key to ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from the use of genetic resources, for present and future generations.
The main international policy framework that regulates genetic resources exchange and use is the Nagoya Protocol which entered into force in 2014.
It defines and protects the owners of genetic resources and it sets the rules for Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS)[9] The following scientific journals are dedicated to the topic of genetic resources conservation and sustainable use: