The CGIAR Initiative on Genebanks is a global effort to ensure the long-term conservation and ready availability of plant genetic resources. The initiative supports the network of 11 genebanks operated by the CGIAR in key biodiversity hotspots across five continents, together safeguarding over 700 000 accessions of seeds, tubers, cryopreserved samples, tissue culture and other material spanning more than 3 000 species.