The Human Factor in Plant Genetic Resources Conservation

Abstract

Expansion of or establishment of plant genetic resources (PGR) programs by national and international agricultural research centers during the past two decades, coupled with vastly expanded field collection activities, has markedly increased the world’s PGR collections. However, genetic erosion in farmer’s fields, natural habitats and inside genebanks also continued at alarming rates. A crucial component in conservation efficacy is the human factor: the quantity and quality of PGR workers. Many workers are inadequately trained or poorly prepared to accept the tedium, heavy load, multifaceted assignments, and low recognition related to their tasks. Their mission generally receives poor support from the administration. As remedial measures, training programs of various formats need to be redevised and expanded to develop more competent workers for this young and growing technology. The morale of PGR workers needs to be boosted. The workers themselves also need to strive for greater interdisciplinary roles and improved service spirit so as to become more effective partners in the expanded crop improvement projects involving biotechnological approaches. Another crucial measure hinges on greater inter-institutional and international collaboration in fully using available resources. Schemes of collaboration are proposed. Plant growers, whether farmers or home gardeners, should be enrolled to participate in conservation efforts. The public sector of human society should be better informed on PGR conservation so as to secure enhanced and sustained support for the necessary activities.