Norwegian Gene Bank SA
The goal of Norsk Bruksgenbank SA is to propagate and make available older plant material for practical cultivation and research.
Older varieties into the future
The Norwegian Genebank shall promote the use of older varieties where it is economically sustainable, and work to ensure that varieties can become commercially interesting again. They shall be a formal and visible collaborative body for all producers and growers of Norwegian seeds that naturally belong in a genebank. Norges Vel runs the secretariat for the genebank and the Norwegian Gene Resources Centre is an observer to the board.
The Norwegian Agricultural Gene Bank was established as a cooperative in the fall of 2018 by stakeholders who want to preserve plant genetic material and ensure the genetic diversity of Norwegian and Nordic varieties. The Norwegian Agricultural Gene Bank is supported by the Norwegian Directorate of Agriculture and the DNB Savings Bank Foundation.
Strengthens food diversity
Today, most varieties grown are imported, but through the use gene bank, it is possible to use our own plant heritage and strengthen food diversity . It contributes to food security to have our own varieties available for use, either by using the varieties as they are, or as a basis for developing new varieties.
Climate adaptation in agriculture
It also appears that some older varieties may be more robust in the face of climate change and extreme weather. Especially for older plant material, it is important to be able to investigate and assess which varieties may be suitable under current and future conditions caused by climate change. Through the work of the Agricultural Gene Bank, consumers will also have a greater diversity of local food to choose from in stores.