Doha: The Ministry of Municipality, represented by the Biotechnology Section and the Gene Bank of the Agricultural Research Department, showcased the achievements of the Qatar Gene Bank during celebrations marking the International Day for Biological Diversity 2026, reaffirming the country’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Held under the theme “Acting Locally for Global Impact,” the event highlighted the vital role of conserving genetic resources in supporting ecosystem sustainability, enhancing food security, and preserving the nation’s natural heritage.
The ministry revealed that since its establishment in 2012, the Qatar Gene Bank has successfully preserved 11.37 million seeds, representing nearly 75 percent of Qatar’s wild plant species, making it one of the country’s most significant environmental conservation initiatives.
Over the past years, the Gene Bank has documented 1,404 genetic accessions and carried out more than 1,200 field expeditions across Qatar and its protected natural reserves to collect and safeguard valuable plant genetic resources.
Among its notable achievements, the Gene Bank has registered 894 Qatari genetic resource accessions in internationally recognized databases, preserved 3,500 herbarium specimens, and delivered specialized training to 100 participants through 20 regional and international courses, totaling more than 600 training hours.
The ministry also noted that Qatar’s genetic resources have been officially incorporated into the global information system of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), reinforcing the country’s contribution to international efforts aimed at protecting biodiversity and ensuring the long-term preservation of genetic resources for future generations.
The achievements reflect Qatar’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its rich biological heritage while supporting global initiatives focused on environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation.
