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This month's Geographical takes a look at different projects trying to secure the future of our food.
Humans are extremely reliant on just a small number of domesticated crops, with 80% of human calorie intake coming from just 12 plant species. What's more, we rely on three species – wheat, maize and rice – for 50% of our calories. This is a big problem, because the low genetic diversity of these crops leaves them, and us, vulnerable to new pests, diseases and environmental change – all of which are due to increase in frequency due to climate change.
Among other examples, Geographical explores the Crop Wild Relatives Project, a 10 year endeavour funded by the Norwegian government, that is bringing together seed banks, plant breeders and small-scale farmers in an attempt to collect, conserve and cross-breed the wild relatives of 29 globally important crops.
Other articles this month feature a look at how the small Greek island of Tilos is the first in the region to have achieved energy self-sufficiency with wholly renewable power sources, a spotlight on the medieval city of Ani in Eastern Turkey, a gallery of the some of the shortlisted images and winners of this year's Earth Photo competition and all the other latest geographical news.
Geographical is included as part of the membership package for Ordinary Members, as a digital edition for Young Geographers and it can also be added to subscriptions for Fellowship. So why not join us today?