Emirati Seeds Achieve Historic Deposit In Svalbard Global Seed Vault For Future Food Security

Emirati seeds have embarked on a remarkable journey from the UAE to the Arctic, where they are now preserved in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. This significant deposit, originating from the International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), marks a crucial step in protecting agricultural diversity and ensuring the preservation of climate-resilient crops for future generations.

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault, often referred to as the "Doomsday Vault," is located 1,300 kilometres from the North Pole. It serves as a secure repository for seeds, safeguarding them against conflicts, natural disasters, climate change, and unforeseen global crises. With over 1.3 million seed samples from 6,200 plant species, it acts as a last-resort backup for crop diversity worldwide.

This historic deposit is the first from the Gulf region and includes 315 accessions representing 110 plant species. Among these are seeds of the Ghaf tree, UAE's national tree, known for its resilience to drought, heat, and salinity. These traits are vital for agriculture in extreme environments and highlight ICBA's extensive research efforts.

Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Director-General of ICBA, highlighted the importance of this initiative: "From the heart of the UAE to the Arctic permafrost, ICBA’s seeds from UAE have embarked on a journey through time, ensuring future generations can access the genetic resources needed to sustain food production in a changing world."

ICBA has been at the forefront of agricultural innovation for over two decades. The centre focuses on developing crops that thrive in arid and saline conditions. Its Genebank houses more than 17,000 accessions from 325 plant species, making it one of the largest collections of drought-, heat-, and salt-tolerant crops globally.

The seeds deposited in Svalbard carry not only UAE's agricultural DNA but also a genetic blueprint essential for future food security. They symbolise resilience and adaptation while encapsulating UAE’s vision for a sustainable future.

Global Collaboration for Food Security

As global food systems face increasing threats from climate change and resource scarcity, ICBA’s contribution to Svalbard underscores UAE’s commitment to sustainability and international cooperation. This deposit ensures that future scientists and policymakers will have access to seeds crucial for agricultural resilience.

The journey of these seeds—from UAE's deserts to Svalbard's icy vaults—represents not just a safeguard for today but a promise for tomorrow. By preserving these genetic resources, we secure an agricultural legacy that supports innovation and resilience in an ever-changing world.

With inputs from WAM