Conserving animal genetic resources

Conservation and sustainable utilization of animal genetic resources is a necessary feature of sustainable agriculture and of animal and ecosystem conservation.

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities.

The European Association for Animal Production (EAAP) and the UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)'s Global Data Bank for Animal Genetic Resources provides genetic information on cattle, sheep, goats, horses, buffaloes and pigs. FAO runs the Global Programme for Animal Genetic Resources.

The Latin American Network for the Conservation and Management of Animal Genetic Resources (REGENAL) promotes national and regional activities related to animal genetic resources, and maintains contact and communication between countries and organizations with regard to this topic.

1. 1. 30 percent of animal genetic resources at the breeding stage are categorized as a high risk of loss.

1. Preserving gene resources

1. Using animal genetic resources
2. Recovering endangered species
3. Preserving genetic diversity of animals

1. Using computerized data banks
2. Strengthening programmes for livestock conservation
3. Providing training on conservation techniques
4. Providing training on collection of animal genetic material
5. Managing databases on biodiversity
6. Initiating breed development strategies
7. Giving priority to cryogenic storage
8. Formulating standards for animal genetic resources
9. Establishing an early warning system for endangered animal breeds
10. Establishing a database for indigenous livestock breeds
11. Creating artificial insemination centres
12. Conserving species
13. Conserving forest genetic resources
14. Compiling data base of wild animal genetic resources
15. Classifying species
16. Choosing indigenous breeds for development

1. Vulnerability of world genetic resources
2. Loss of beneficial plants and animals
3. Lack of gene banks
4. Decreasing genetic diversity of animals

1. Agenda 21