Germplasm exchange is critical to conservation of biodiversity and global food security. (16th July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Smith, Stephen; Nickson, Thomas E.; Challender, Mary
• Is Part Of: Agronomy Journal. Volume 113:Number 4(2021)
• Page Start: 2969
• Page End: 2979
• Publication Date: 2021-07-16
• Subjects: Agronomy -- Periodicals; 630
• DOI: 10.1002/agj2.20761
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0002-1962

Abstract

Abstract: Global food security depends on the continual improvement of a relatively small number of food and feed crops. Today's food supply is heavily dependent on the movement of seed and other forms of plant germplasm for these crops across national and regional borders. As occurred during the Green Revolution, facilitated and widespread exchange of the major food crops is critical for food security. Plant breeders, molecular biologists, and agronomists, using scientifically guided processes and working collaboratively around the world, are achieving greater gains in crop yields and quality in shorter times than in the past. However, newer policies emerging from international environmental negotiations are giving rise to restrictions that are limiting access and exchange of germplasm and threatening food security. We argue that these evolving policies and practices are having far‐reaching and negative impacts on plant breeding, agriculture, and food security. We provide some ideas on how to steer future policy negotiations to encourage germplasm exchange and thereby support food security and other important environmental objectives. Core Ideas: World food security depends on continual crop improvement, especially for developing countries. Plant germplasm movement across borders is critical to improving global agricultural production. All major food crops have a historical reliance on germplasm from many countries and regions. Restrictions on germplasm access negatively impact plant breeding and agricultural production. Promoting germplasm exchange leads to greater food security and rural prosperity.