Status of Norwegian genetic resources 2023

Genetic resources are heritable biological materials that have, or could have, value for humans. They are the biological foundation of all agriculture. Over the last century, genetic traits have been studied and used to develop modern livestock breeds and plant varieties with improved production traits.

Modern food production relies on fewer species, breeds, and varieties than before, leading to reduced diversity and the loss of essential genetic resources. National genetic resources at risk refer to species, varieties, or breeds considered that are at risk of disappearing.

“The loss of genetic diversity in agriculture poses a risk to current and future food security. Preventing further loss is both a critical global and national goal,” says Linn Borgen Nilsen, Head of the Norwegian Genetic Resource Centre at NIBIO.

Crops, forest trees, and livestock are conserved in different ways. Some are safeguarded in gene banks, some conserved in nature, and others maintained in production.

In Norway, we have a system that ensures oversight of genetic resources in both conservation and production. The Norwegian Genetic Resource Centre monitors the status and trends of genetic diversity within livestock, crops, and forest trees.

“The Key Figures Report offers tables, graphs, and status updates and serves as a reference for those working with genetic resources for food and agriculture,” says Nilsen.

To manage genetic resources effectively, we must know what we have, ensure their conservation, and promote their use.