The International Potato Center’s (CIP) Genebank plays a pivotal role in the collection, characterization, and cryopreservation of genetic diversity, focusing on landraces and local varieties. Expanding beyond preservation, CIP aims to mobilize these genetic resources for the accelerated return of cleansed landraces to smallholder farmers and to develop superior crop varieties, emphasizing closer collaboration in research and field activities.
We aim to share genetic diversity with public and private sectors to enhance breeding and research. At the same time, capacity development initiatives contribute to a resilient global genebank network. Rapid population growth, biodiversity loss, urbanization, and climate change are global challenges that strain food security, highlighting the importance of conserving and utilizing crop genetic diversity. CIP’s commitment extends to enriching its Genebank, agroecology, and livelihoods worldwide by promoting sustainable, diverse agriculture. With climate change escalating threats from pests and diseases, advanced genomics and data-driven breeding programs become essential for targeted trait development.
CIP advocates for a comprehensive strategy, combining in-situ and ex-situ conservation efforts, to ensure the long-term preservation of adapted and resilient genetic diversity.
In ancient Andean mythology, potatoes are the gift of the Earth Mother Pachamana. In exchange, she demanded from people to take care of the soils and the environment. Lasting for millennia, this pledge is in peril today. Peru, home to more than 5,000 of potatoes, is facing severe challenges due to climate change, global warming, pests, and diseases. These factors threaten the rich agricultural heritage and the sustainable practices that have sustained the Andean community for generations.
