The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was inspired by the world community's growing commitment to sustainable development. It represents a dramatic step forward in the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. The issue of safety in biotechnology is addressed in articles 8(g) and 19(3) of the CBD.

More specifically, in Article 8(g), Parties to the CBD are called upon to establish or maintain means to regulate, manage or control the risks associated with the use and release of LMOs resulting from biotechnology which are likely to have adverse impacts on the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.