Message from Kent Nnadozie
Secretary, International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture
On this International Day for Biological Diversity, we join voices around the world to affirm a shared truth: that there is no sustainable development and no harmony with nature without the protection and wise use of the Earth’s biodiversity. Today’s theme, of “Harmony with nature and sustainable development,” reminds us that humanity’s future is inextricably linked with the natural systems that sustain all life on earth.
At the heart of these systems lies agricultural biodiversity, in particular, the diversity of the plants that feed the world. At the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, we work around the world to conserve, exchange and equitably share the benefits of plant genetic resources. These seeds are the building blocks of our food. They are stored in genebanks, exchanged between nations, and cultivated by farmers. The International Treaty provides the largest global mechanism for the exchange of these precious resources. Plant genetic resources hold the genetic keys to climate adaptation, improved nutrition, and food security for all. Therefore, it is imperative to conserve their diversity and sustainably use them for the common good of all.
The Treaty’s mission contributes directly to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, especially Target 4, which calls for the sustainable use of biodiversity, and Target 10, which underscores the importance of genetic diversity in agriculture. The Treaty also strengthens progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular, Goal 2 of Zero Hunger, Goal 13 for Climate Action, and Goal 15 for Life on Land.
Our work is guided not only by science, but by the understanding that justice, equity, and international solidarity are essential. We recognize and support the indispensable role of farmers as custodians of crop diversity and the living link between traditional knowledge and modern sustainability efforts.
On this day, join us to reaffirm our commitment to agricultural biodiversity as a global public good, a pillar of resilience, and a bridge to a future where nature and people thrive together in harmony.
#ItAllStartsWithTheSeed