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Michèle Barbier
Founder of the Institute
BIODIVERSITY for Science & Ethics
WITH UNLIMITED
PERSPECTIVES ETHICAL USE OF SEABEDS
In-depth observations of urchins, cuttlefish and As noted by Michèle Barbier, Founder of the Institute for
jellyfish have helped us to discover molecules Science & Ethics, “marine biodiversity can be used in
which have an effect on cell renewal, nerves or various fields: we can produce dyes, wellness products,
capturing cancerous cells. As advised by Éric human or animal food, biomaterials, cosmetics, cancer-
Röttinger, from the Nice Institute for Research on fighting, healing or medical emergency medications (such
Cancer and Ageing, “researchers need to spend as universal blood for short-term blood transfusions)
more time at the aquarium. In our laboratory, we etc. Marine resources have the potential to provide
observe corals and jellyfish, which are excellent a sustainable source of considerable diversity and
examples of longevity, living for 4,000 years. If we commercial opportunities for local economies”.
understand how they work, we could understand
how to fight ageing. Through our experience with This is an emerging market held 70% by the
sea anemones, we discovered that regeneration USA, Germany and Japan. A fairer and more balanced
is similar to embryogenesis in some genes only”. distribution of the benefits from using these resources
Rachid Benchaouir and his marine biology startup is required, as underlined by the Nagoya protocol and
Coraliotech has highlighted the anti-UV properties the CIESM 9-point protocol, which promotes fair and
of certain coral proteins, which could be used in sustainable use of marine resources.
cosmetology or pharmacology. He develops them
using artificially cultivated corals.
