The CIHEAM Chania is on the verge of realizing an ambitious project: the establishment of the first "Green" Bioclimatic Seed Bank in the Mediterranean, aimed at preserving more than 500 varieties of rare endemic seeds. Housed in a modern, environmentally friendly space, this seed bank aspires to become an international centre for research and education, serving as a model for the entire Mediterranean region.
After more than five years of efforts, the project is in its final study phase. Presented on Monday 8 July 2024, at the offices of the Regional Unit of Chania, the project was developed by the Technical University of Crete thanks to an agreement between the Region of Crete, the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Chania (CIHEAM Chania), and the Technical University of Crete.
The research project proposes innovative interventions to optimize the microclimatic conditions required for seed conservation. It integrates energy production and saving systems, such as photovoltaic panels and innovative materials for passive heating, cooling, and lighting. The proposed interventions aim:
- To ensure better conservation of Crete's phytogenetic resources within the Mediterranean Plant Conservation Unit (MPCU) of the CIHEAM Chania;
- To reduce the operating costs of the Seed Bank;
- To expand educational and research activities in cooperation with academic and research institutions, the Forest Directorates of Crete, and natural environment units;
- To develop environmental education and awareness programmes in collaboration with the primary and secondary education directorates.
The objective of the project is to support the implementation of national strategies for biodiversity and climate change, legislation on plant genetic resources, and the international conventions signed by Greece. Additionally, the Bioclimatic Seed Bank will serve as a model for Mediterranean countries with similar bioclimatic conditions.