Nordic co-operation on genetic resources will help to secure future genetic diversity in food production and forestry.

A number of species and plants are threatened today, not least because of the challenges of climate change.

Work with genetic resources at Nordic level takes place, for example, through the Nordic Genetic Resource Centre - NordGen, established in 2007, through an amalgamation of three Nordic institutions in this field.

NordGen's objective is to focus attention on the preservation and sustainable use of genetic plant, animal and forest resources.

NordGen has built up a close co-operation with the Baltic States to protect and strengthen the environment of the Baltic Sea Region through preservation and research into plant genetic material.

Genetic resources form the basis for animals and plants' adaptation to climate change, new growth conditions, new plant and animal diseases, increased production, and new environmental and consumer requirements.

Positive and efficient administration of genetic resource will form the basis for breeding, development and innovation in the future.