Saving seeds, saving our future
Over 13,000 new seeds were recently added to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, a secure storage facility deep in the Arctic. Often called the “Doomsday Vault,” it protects the world’s crops from disasters like war, climate change, and biodiversity loss. But seed saving isn’t just for frozen Norway, it’s becoming more important in the ABC Islands too.
Why do seeds Need saving?
Seed banks are like food insurance. When wars, extreme weather, or disasters wipe out local crops, these stored seeds can bring them back. The Svalbard Vault acts as a global backup, but local seed-saving efforts are just as crucial—especially in dry regions like Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, where farming depends on resilient crops.
The Caribbean connection
On the ABC Islands, interest in seed saving and biodiversity is growing. Farmers and gardeners are realizing the importance of preserving drought-resistant varieties that thrive in our warm, arid conditions. Take the concomber chikito, a small, heat-tolerant cucumber, or the dragon fruit varieties cultivated by James Ramos. These plants are naturally adapted to the local climate, making them essential for future food security.
As climate change brings more extreme weather, seed saving helps ensure that future generations can still grow crops suited to their environment. The more diverse our seed collection, the more resilient our food system becomes.
The NOS NPO op 3 previously made an explainer about the global seed bank on Spitsbergen in Dutch:
Just like Svalbard protects seeds for the world, we can do our part here on the islands. By saving and sharing seeds, we help keep our agricultural traditions alive and support a more sustainable future.
Want to grow your own heirloom plants? Check out our seed collection and 🐝bee friendly products in our shop and also be sure to check out the collection of heirloom seeds on rareseeds.com.
If you like this article you may also want to read:
- The power of heirloom seeds
- Best farms in Bonaire
- Best farms in Curaçao
- Best Farms in Aruba
- Keukenhof Tulip gardens
- Our lookback at 2024
- Hofi mango Curacao