This article presents the joint Nordic project, a two-year project which had multiple objectives: 1) establish a Nordic network for genetic resources as ecosystem services aiming at policy input; 2) exchange of knowledge to obtain Nordic synergies within ex situ and in situ conservation, with particular focus on in situ conservation of CWR in genetic reserves including developing the scientific basis for it; 3) increase Nordic synergy on the interaction between ex situ and in situ conservation; 4) strengthen the Nordic position within EU on crop wild relatives (CWR) conservation and use, including its role as an essential ecosystem service.