Improving institutions for conservation of plant genetic resources

Description

Improving institutions for conservation of plant genetic resources involves strengthening organizational capacity, coordination, and infrastructure to safeguard plant diversity. This strategy focuses on establishing effective gene banks, enhancing data management, and fostering collaboration among national and international bodies. Key actions include securing long-term funding, developing skilled personnel, and implementing standardized protocols to ensure the collection, preservation, and sustainable use of plant genetic materials, thereby addressing threats from habitat loss, climate change, and genetic erosion.

Implementation

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities. Agenda 21 recommends developing and strengthening institutional capacity, structures and programmes for conservation and use of PGRFA (plant genetic resources for agriculture).