Overview

• The Svalbard Global Seed Vault received its largest deposit since its opening in 2008, with over 30,000 new seed samples.
• Contributions came from 21 countries, including first-time deposits from Bolivia, Chad, and Palestine, highlighting the global effort to preserve biodiversity.
• Palestinian seeds from the Union of Agricultural Work Committees were included, underscoring the impact of conflict on agriculture in the region.
• The vault serves as a backup for global gene banks, safeguarding plant genetic diversity against threats like climate change and conflict.
• Norway's role in supporting the vault is part of a broader initiative for biodiversity and food security, emphasizing international cooperation.