C-BAN is a network of people committed to an open critical public debate of biotechnology issues. Its purpuse is to provide support, information, and encouragement to individuals and groups concerned about biotechnology and genetic engineering.

Although the initial focus of C-BAN has been on agriculture and food, it aims to become a representative group at a national level which is able to intervene in policy fora and to provide information on the whole range of issues related to biotechnology and genetic engineering.

With shared goals both a diversity of strategies and practical cooperation (managing diversity) are possible - the issues are big enough that there is enough to go around.

Wherever possible, C-BAN works in alliance with other groups on common issues.