The European Cooperative Programme for Plant Genetic Resources (ECPGR) is an international initiative aimed at promoting the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources in Europe. It was established in 1986 and is coordinated by the Bioversity International, in collaboration with other regional and national partners.
ECPGR serves as a platform for coordinating efforts and exchanging information related to the conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources in Europe. Its main objectives include the establishment of a network of national and international institutions involved in the conservation of plant genetic resources, the development of common strategies and methodologies for their conservation and utilization, and the facilitation of collaboration and information sharing among its member institutions.
The program focuses on a wide range of crop plants and their wild relatives, including cereals, vegetables, fruits, and forage species. It promotes the conservation of traditional and local varieties, as well as rare and endangered species, to maintain the genetic diversity necessary for crop improvement and adaptation to changing environmental conditions.
Through its activities, ECPGR contributes to the implementation of international agreements and commitments related to the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources, such as the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture and the Convention on Biological Diversity.
In summary, ECPGR is a collaborative initiative that aims to safeguard and enhance the diversity of plant genetic resources in Europe, ensuring their availability for future generations and supporting the sustainable development of agriculture and food security.
