admin Dr. Geoffrey Hawtin and Dr. Cary Fowler have been recognised as the 2024 World Food Prize Laureates for their significant contributions to seed conservation and the promotion of crop biodiversity. Their pioneering work in establishing the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, an underground facility within the Arctic Circle, has solidified their roles as instrumental figures in safeguarding global food security.
Establishing the “Doomsday Vault”
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault, often called the “Doomsday Vault,” was inaugurated in 2008 and today protects 1.25 million seed samples from over 6,000 plant species. This vault serves as a crucial backup facility, preserving the genetic diversity essential for responding to potential crises such as pandemics and climate-related disasters. The vault’s establishment was largely driven by Dr. Fowler, who proposed the idea during his tenure at CGIAR, leading to his role as the first Chair of the Vault’s International Advisory Council.
Dr. Hawtin was key in the initial feasibility studies and technical planning of the vault. In 2004, he also founded the Global Crop Diversity Trust, which supports the vault’s operations in partnership with the Norwegian Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Nordic Genetic Resource Center, NordGen.
Legacy and Future Impact
The award announcement was made during a ceremony at the U.S. Department of State, where Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Ambassador Terry Branstad praised the laureates for their enduring contributions to tackling global hunger and advancing crop diversity. Their efforts have not only provided a critical safety net for the world’s agriculture but also paved the way for future innovations in crop utilisation and food security.
Both laureates have also been involved in broader initiatives, such as the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, which facilitates global seed sharing essential for agricultural research and development. Dr. Fowler’s advocacy for increased collection and preservation of indigenous crops highlights the ongoing need for investment in agricultural diversity to meet the challenges of feeding a growing global population.
Through their work, Drs. Hawitn and Fowler have demonstrated how strategic conservation efforts can create enduring resources that support global food systems against an array of threats, ensuring a resilient agricultural future. Their continued influence is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and collaboration in the quest for sustainable food security.
Magazine 
