In a landmark move for global scientific collaboration, the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) and 49 institutions from 15 countries and regions unveiled the Plant Planet Project on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. This ambitious initiative aims to decode the genetic blueprints of Earth’s plant lineages using advanced AI, addressing critical challenges like food security and biodiversity loss.
Bridging Evolutionary Gaps with AI
Principal investigator Wang Li of CAAS’s Shenzhen Institute emphasized the project’s goal to resolve fragmented genomic data that has long hindered understanding of plant evolution. “By sequencing understudied plant orders and families, we’ll map a complete tree of life,” Wang explained. The findings could revolutionize conservation efforts by identifying genetically vulnerable species faster than traditional methods, enabling targeted policies to prevent extinction.
From Labs to Fields: Climate-Resilient Crops
The project also targets practical applications for agriculture. By analyzing genes linked to drought and disease resistance, researchers aim to develop “future crops” capable of withstanding climate extremes. This aligns with global efforts to stabilize food systems amid rising temperatures and population growth.
A Framework for Global Science
Beyond immediate benefits, the initiative establishes a new model for international cooperation in plant science. With partners spanning Asia, Europe, and the Americas, it underscores the Chinese mainland’s role in fostering cross-border solutions to ecological and developmental challenges. Analysts predict the project will accelerate progress toward UN Sustainable Development Goals while strengthening biodiversity conservation frameworks worldwide.
