BIOTECHNOLOGY AND RURAL SUSTAINABILITY IN BANGLADESH

The analysis of trends in recent biotechnology patenting in the USA reveals that many patents issued between 1976 and 2005 are based on biological material sourced from the Indian subcontinent. The chapter also warns about the probability of deploying these newly emerged technologies in developing countries and causing unsustainable practices. It refers to the basic ecological services provided by the natural environment and stresses the need for understanding their economic dimension, particularly in relation to rural people. Building self-reliance and using local knowledge and skills are suggested as a way to counteract the pressure from the West. The case of rural Bangladesh where the Baul culture is highly influential is used as a case study.