The IIC has had a programme of bioprospecting since 2000 in collaboration with institutions including CABI (Centre for Agriculture and Biodiversity International, UK), Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, University of West Indies, University of Guyana and Institute of Applied Science and Technology, Guyana.  Among the achievements between 2000 and 2002, the following are highlighted:

Plant products and bio-prospecting benefit significantly form the traditional knowledge and experience of the local communities. Any future work in this area will account for and require an equitable partnership that recognises and values this traditional knowledge, experience and expertise.