Global strategy for plant conservation
Field of bluebells, Hyacinthoides non-scripta.
Plants are a vital part of the world's biological diversity and an essential resource for the planet. In addition to the small number of crop plants used for basic food and fibres, many thousands of wild plants have great economic and cultural importance, providing food, medicine, fuel, clothing and shelter for vast numbers of people throughout the world. Plants also play a key role in maintaining the planet's basic environmental balance and provide an important part of habitats for animal life.
Many plants are in danger of extinction, threatened by habitat transformation, over-exploitation, alien invasive species, pollution and climate change.
The objective of the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation is to halt the current and continuing loss of plant diversity.
What is the Museum doing to help?
Museum scientists are conducting research on important plant species from all over the world, including pioneer tree species that recolonise cleared areas in tropical forests and on wild plant species that are harvested for food or to be sold.
Museum science is also helping to combat plant pests that are threatening biodiversity in the UK and internationally.
Find out more about the Museum's plant conservation projects.