Simon Parkin

Simon Parkin, a writer and journalist, shares the incredible story behind the botanists who safeguarded the world's first seed bank during the harrowing Siege of Leningrad. He discusses the life and dedication of Nikolai Vavilov, who championed biodiversity despite facing starvation and political oppression. Listeners will discover the juxtaposition of scientific passion and survival against the backdrop of war, highlighting the extraordinary resilience of those committed to preserving plant species for future generations.

In this engaging conversation, award-winning writer and games critic Simon Parkin delves into the harrowing story of Russian botanist Nikolai Vavilov. During the WWII siege of Leningrad, Vavilov and his team faced the horror of starvation while safeguarding a vital seed bank. They chose to preserve seeds for future generations over their immediate survival, leading to profound ethical dilemmas. Parkin highlights their sacrifice, which ultimately saved countless plant species and reshaped agriculture, leaving an enduring legacy in the fight against hunger.

In this engaging discussion, Simon Parkin, an accomplished author and journalist, shares the extraordinary story of botanists who safeguarded the world’s first seed bank during the harrowing Leningrad siege. He highlights their relentless efforts to preserve vital genetic diversity amidst chaos and hunger. Parkin details the intense evacuation challenges faced by the staff and the moral dilemmas they encountered while balancing survival with their commitment to preservation. It's a fascinating tale of resilience and dedication in the face of war's brutality.