FAO Launches Forest Genetic Resources Report
Borneo Rainforest by Andrew Lowe
From 24 to 28 March 2025, global leaders, researchers, and policymakers will come together for the 20th Regular Session of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, a pivotal event hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
As the only permanent intergovernmental body dedicated to addressing all components of biodiversity for food and agriculture, the Commission plays a central role in shaping the future of our global food systems. The work conducted is applicable to everything, from crops and livestock to forests, aquatic life, and microorganisms, the living resources that support sustainable agriculture and human well-being worldwide.
This year’s session will focus on advancing international cooperation, reaching consensus on biodiversity-related policies, and strengthening global efforts to conserve and sustainably use genetic resources. The Commission’s mission is more critical than ever, to safeguard biodiversity for food security, development, and the resilience of future generations.
Borneo Rainforest by Andrew Lowe
A key feature of the week-long session will be the launch of the Second Report on the State of the World’s Forest Genetic Resources on Wednesday, 26 March 2025.
Presented by FAO, this flagship report highlights the essential role of genetic diversity in forests, the foundation of their resilience, productivity, and adaptability in the face of global change. The report provides a comprehensive overview of how countries are managing forest genetic resources and outlines strategies to strengthen conservation and sustainable use.
Among the contributors to the report is Professor Andy Lowe, Director of the Environment Institute, who co-authored Chapter 5: “State of Diversity within Trees and Other Woody Plants” with Colette Blyth and Sam Turner Blyth. This chapter explores the genetic characterisation of tree species, the influence of ecological and demographic factors, and recent scientific insights from forest biomes around the world.
The livestream will present key findings of the report, while focusing on new global information system on forest genetic resources and Panellists providing management reccommendations to implement a global action plan. From the event, they aim to raise awareness about the importance of forest genetic resources, not just for ecosystems, but for the long-term security, sustainability, and sovereignty of food systems globally.
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