Celebrating International Day for Biological Diversity

Biological diversity is the foundation of life – in nature, agriculture, and rural life alike. To mark the International Day for Biological Diversity, the Centre of Estonian Rural Research and Knowledge (METK) highlights the importance of conserving the genetic resources of agricultural crops and invites everyone to reflect and take action.

The METK Gene Bank is Estonia’s central hub for collecting, preserving, researching, and distributing breeding varieties and Estonian heritage varieties (landraces). Established in 1999 with the support of a joint Nordic-Baltic project, the Gene Bank operates under the national program “Collection, Conservation, and Use of Genetic Resources for Agricultural Crops 2021–2027.”

The work of the Gene Bank is closely linked to Estonia’s international obligations. METK contributes to the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. The Gene Bank is an active participant in the European Cooperative Programme for Plant Genetic Resources (ECPGR) and the Nordic-Baltic cooperation network. Our scientists and plant breeders are involved in 16 species- and sector-specific working groups, focusing on the conservation, research, and development of agricultural genetic diversity.

Biological diversity is not merely a heritage of the past – it is a guarantee for the future.

Our daily activities and expertise help shape sustainable agriculture and ensure that natural diversity is preserved, developed, and utilized.

The international scope of our work is further highlighted by the meeting of European gene bank representatives taking place in Prague from May 19–22. This meeting will discuss future directions for the conservation of genetic resources and prepare for cooperation within new programs. Estonia will be represented by Külli Annamaa, Head of the Gene Bank at METK.

The Centre of Estonian Rural Research and Knowledge invites everyone to visit our gene bank and contribute to the preservation of our heritage. If your home garden holds potatoes, vegetables, fruit trees, or berry bushes passed down through generations, please let us know – these plants may provide an invaluable contribution to preserving genetic diversity of Estonian origin.

For more information or to share details about heritage varieties in your garden, please visit the METK website at metk.agri.ee.