Ep 12. Doomsday Seed Vault

Innovation Nation season 3 episode 12, titled "Doomsday Seed Vault," explores the importance of preserving genetic diversity in plants to ensure food security and sustainability. Host Mo Rocca takes viewers on a journey to Svalbard, Norway, where the Global Seed Vault stands as a beacon of hope for the future of agriculture.

The episode begins with Rocca highlighting the various threats to crops, including climate change, natural disasters, and disease. He explains that genetic diversity is crucial for plant survival and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. The Global Seed Vault, located on a remote island near the Arctic Circle, was built to store seeds from around the world in a safe and secure location.

Rocca travels to Svalbard and meets with the team responsible for the Seed Vault's operations. He learns about the unique features of the facility, including its location underground, the use of permafrost to maintain a constant temperature, and the meticulous process of seed preservation.

Viewers also meet Cary Fowler, an agricultural pioneer who played a key role in establishing the Seed Vault. Fowler discusses the importance of preserving different varieties of crops, even those that may not be commercially viable. He points out that each seed has a unique genetic code that could hold the key to developing new strains of crops that are more resistant to pests, drought, or disease.

In addition to the Global Seed Vault, Rocca explores other initiatives aimed at preserving genetic diversity in crops. He visits the US Department of Agriculture's National Seed Storage Laboratory in Colorado, where millions of seeds are stored and studied. He also meets with individual farmers and gardeners who are passionate about protecting rare and heirloom varieties of fruits and vegetables.

Throughout the episode, Rocca stresses the urgent need to protect crop diversity in the face of mounting environmental challenges. He encourages viewers to take action by supporting local seed banks, planting diverse crops in their own gardens, and advocating for policies that promote sustainable agriculture.

In conclusion, "Doomsday Seed Vault" is a fascinating and informative episode of Innovation Nation that sheds light on the crucial role of genetic diversity in agriculture. Through interviews with experts and visits to cutting-edge facilities, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the global food system. The episode inspires viewers to take action and make a difference in the future of agriculture and sustainability.