Global Seed Vault: Humanity's Insurance Policy for Food Security Location: Svalbard, Norway
Completed Cost: $9 Million
Year Completed: 2008
The Global Seed Vault, located in the remote archipelago of Svalbard, Norway, is arguably one of the most significant preservation initiatives ever undertaken by humanity. Completed in 2008 at a cost of $9 million, this remarkable facility serves as a backup gene bank, safeguarding the future of global agriculture.
Housing an impressive collection of 1,214,827 seed samples from nearly every nation, the Global Seed Vault is designed to protect the genetic diversity of the world's crops. This project provides a vital resource for future generations, offering hope in the face of challenges such as population growth and climate change. By preserving these seeds, the vault acts as an ultimate food supply insurance policy, ensuring that essential plant varieties can be restored in the event of natural disasters, wars, or other catastrophic events that threaten food security.
Global Seed Vault: Advanced Preservation Techniques Location: Svalbard, Norway
Completed Cost: $9 Million
Year Completed: 2008
The Global Seed Vault, as depicted in the image ©Shutterstock/Marcin Kadziolka, employs cutting-edge preservation techniques to ensure the longevity and viability of its seed collection. Each seed is meticulously stored in specially designed foil packaging that consists of three layers, providing optimal protection against environmental factors.
To maintain ideal storage conditions, the vault is kept at a temperature of −18°C, with low moisture levels to minimize metabolic activity. This careful control of the environment is crucial for preserving the seeds over long periods. Remarkably, even in the event of a power failure, the seeds remain safely frozen and viable due to the natural permafrost and the heavy rock formation surrounding the vault.
