European CSBs are generally embedded in informal PGRFA conservation and seed systems, and most often their origin does not emerge out of any relationship with formal PGRFA institutions. However, as their activities and services grow and diversify in scope and outreach, it is not at all un-frequent that they interact with research institutes and national or international genebanks. Strengthened collaboration between genebanks and organisations working at different levels on seed system development is potentially beneficial for both sides: farmers may benefit from access to genetic diversity they otherwise would not have, and genebanks get to interact with seed systems they would not reach through conventional channels.
This third handbook seeks to shed light on all the laws, directives, treaties, and conventions that affect the world of seeds and their access.