A new documentary on the conservation of plant genetic resources in Georgia is in production, supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The film, produced in collaboration with the Scientific Research Center of Agriculture of Georgia and international partners, highlights the country’s efforts in preserving agrobiodiversity and adapting agriculture to climate change.

Filming has been completed at the Tsilkani and Jighaura research bases, the Center’s seed laboratory and gene bank, as well as on traditional farming plots in Kakheti and Samtskhe-Javakheti, where endangered native varieties are conserved.

The documentary aims to raise international awareness of Georgia’s rich plant heritage and its contributions to sustainable agriculture. One of the key moments featured in the film is Georgia’s participation in depositing samples at the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, a symbolic act showcasing the nation’s role in global conservation efforts.

“This documentary is a key platform through which Georgia’s achievements in genetic resource preservation will be recognized globally,” said Levan Ujmajuridze, Director of the Scientific Research Center. “It reflects our growing contribution to international scientific and agricultural cooperation.”

As part of the production, the center hosted Cindy Cote-Andret, Technical Officer of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources (ITPGRFA), and Thomas Nicholson, a representative of National Geographic. Interviews were conducted with Ujmajuridze and Tamar Jinjikhadze, Manager of Georgia’s Genebank.

“Georgia is uniquely rich in agrobiodiversity, and this film allows the international community to learn about our genetic resources and the methods we use to protect them,” said Jinjikhadze. “It serves as a bridge between our local experience and global agricultural needs.”

The documentary will be officially presented at the Governing Body session of the UN ITPGRFA, to be held in Lima, Peru, in November 2025.

The film is being produced under the international project: “Maintaining Traditional Varieties Adapted to Climate Change on Farms and Strengthening the In Situ/On-Farm and Ex Situ Connection.”