Cary Fowler
Enough rice, maize and wheat to feed an army -- well, that's the hope (someday)! Nearly 3 weeks ago the Svalbard Global Seed Vault opened on a remote island in the Arctic Circle, with 100 million seeds (just the first shipment!) that originated in over 100 countries. The Vault is a project of the Global Crop Diversity Fund, with donations from large corporations, wealthy philanthropists, and countries across the globe. You may be surprised to hear America is NOT one of the biggest donors for this worthwhile eco-program. The opening of the seed vault is part of an unprecedented effort to protect the planet's rapidly diminishing biodiversity. The diversity of our crops is essential for food production, yet it is being lost -- and fast. Joining us today to tell us all about the Seed Vault is Carey Fowler of the Global Crop Diversity Fund.
Podcast Date: 4/4/2008