BSF project "Participatory and science-based Strategic Action Plan to strengthen the conservation of plant genetic resources"

" Participatory and science-based Strategic Action Plan to strengthen the conservation of plant genetic resources" is one of the projects supported by the Benefit-Sharing Fund of the International Treaty for Food and Agriculture (Second Cycle). This project has been designed as a roadmap for strengthening the conservation and use of Mesoamerican native plant genetic resources as a strategic element for climate change adaptation. It combines analysis of scientific evidence (diagnosis of the status of PGRFA in the region) and broad consultation directly involving 70 experts and more than 200 stakeholders. Project activities focus on 10 of the most important Mesoamerican crops for local and global food security with potential to generate income. This project’s framework will benefit farming communities by increasing their capacity to adapt to climate changes, diversify agricultural systems and dietary patterns through increased use of PGRFA diversity, and also substantially increase the capacity of decision makers in Mesoamerican countries to respond to food security challenges.