Considering the state of global affairs, it is entirely reasonable that some individuals believe that the world is spinning out of control. Some have even begun preparing for what they term to be nothing less than an inevitable outcome. While the term "doomsday prepper" sounds a bit severe, such an outlook is actually taken seriously by many governments. Let's take a quick look at one example known as the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. What is the intention of this storage centre? Why is it located in Norway? What technology does it employ?
The Basic Principle
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault has been engineered to ensure global crop diversity in the event of a large-scale disaster. Scenarios include (but are not limited to) a nuclear war, the effects of large-scale flooding, or invasive species that might target specific ecosystems. In other words, the facility is a backup supply that the agricultural community can leverage in a dire emergency.
Ensuring Continuity
Believe it or not, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault currently stores more than 1.3 million different types of seeds from virtually every location around the world. These are kept at extremely low temperatures. Similar to the principles associated with modern cryogenics, such low temperatures will ensure that they remain fertile well into the future. The facility is maintained by a massive internal refrigeration system that constantly circulates cold air, and various parameters are monitored by on-site personnel 24 hours a day.
Why Norway?
Readers may rightfully ask why the Svalbard Global Seed Vault happens to be found in such a desolate location. There are actually several reasons. The area is not prone to seismic activity, so it is not likely to suffer from any earthquakes. It is likewise less vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to its high latitude. The fact that it is not found close to any major cities also addresses potential security concerns. In other words, travellers are not likely to "stumble across" the vault.
Overkill or a Viable Strategy?
Some analysts have pointed out the relatively high costs associated with maintaining the Svalbard Global Seed Vault; claiming that the funds should be allocated elsewhere. Others instead argue that the preventative nature of this facility far outweighs any financial concerns; especially in terms of widespread famine in the event of a large natural disaster.
Either way, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault is an excellent example of technological ingenuity, and it illustrates how governments are taking the notion of sustainability seriously.
