Next to adopting decisions the CBD can also develop protocols as independent treaties that have to be ratified by Parties to enter into force. For the time being there are two protocols under the CBD:
The "Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety" to the Convention on Biological Diversity" is an international agreement which aims to ensure the safe handling, transport and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology that may have adverse effects on biological diversity. It entered into force in September 2003.
The "Nagoya Protocol" on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization to the Convention on Biological Diversity" is an international agreement which aims at sharing the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources in a fair and equitable way, including by appropriate access to genetic resources. It was agreed upon during COP 10 in 2010. The CBD informs about developments and the status.