"Modern plant biotechnology holds many of the potential solutions for sustainable agricultural and industrial systems. However, converting this promise into practice in less developed regions will require a concerted effort in training in --and accessto-- the latest technological developments and the design of effective biosafety and regulatory mechanisms. IPBO contributes to awareness and capacity building through knowledge transfer in enabling technologies, international regulations and intellectual property rights, and the promotion of innovative research oriented to the needs of developing nations.IPBO is an initiative of Marc Van Montagu at Ghent University and is supported by the Flemish Government. Its mission is to promote technology and knowledge transfer for sustainable agro - and agro-industrial development."