Produced by: Tarun Mishra
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway has recently received a significant influx of seed samples, marking the largest number of depositors since 2020. This increase reflects growing concerns over the impacts of climate change and geopolitical conflicts on food security.
Launched in 2008, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault is designed to serve as a backup for gene banks worldwide. It safeguards the genetic diversity of thousands of plant species by storing seeds deep within a mountain, protected from potential disasters.
Executive Director Stefan Schmitz of the Crop Trust stated that climate change and conflict threaten infrastructure and food security for over 700 million people across more than 75 countries, prompting the increased deposits.
Among the new contributions, Bolivia has made its first deposit, facilitated by the Universidad Mayor Real y Pontificia de San Francisco Xavier de Chuquisaca. This initiative involved collaboration with around 125 farming families and emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage alongside agricultural diversity.
Chad has also joined the list of depositors, contributing 1,145 samples of vital crops, including sesame, rice, maize, and sorghum. These seeds are adapted to the local climate and are essential for developing resilient crops in the face of rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall.
In total, the vault received over 30,000 new seed samples from 21 countries, including a variety of vegetables, legumes, and herbs from the Union of Agricultural Work Committees in the occupied Palestinian territories.
Located on Spitsbergen Island, the Svalbard Seed Vault is opened only two or three times a year to minimize its exposure to external conditions. This limited access helps ensure the long-term preservation of the seeds stored within.