Social and ecological role of bio-factories in Colombia

Abstract

Bio-factoriesin Colombia are developed in the framework of the constitutional right to economic freedom and free enterprise which are not absolute rights and therefore the State has an obligation to interfere forseek the equitable distribution of opportunities, benefits, and preserving a healthy environment. On that basis and bearing in mind that Colombia is a State of law, the collective interest prevails over the individual interest and thus the material and intellectual property depend on the common interest. Other constitutional limits to property and free enterprise are: fair competition and social control on the risk involved in biotechnology market abuse. That way, the social role of bio-factories is guided by respect for the environment, education and training of labor, the application of knowledge to solve problems in the region, respect for the cultures, traditions and knowledge of indigenous, peasants and Afro-Colombian communities, and, to support the technological and scientific development for the common benefit and the reward for access and exploit natural resources.