In the best of worlds, genetic resources would be safeguarded in nature and allowed to thrive and contribute to a sustainable development without risk. However, in reality ex situ conservation is needed to minimize the loss of valuable genetic diversity. But how do we make sure that genebanks are not just seed museums? How do we promote a sustainable use of the genetic resources that genebanks conserve? In this discussion, we share info on how genebanks work and why safety backup of seeds in the Arctic is an important part of the puzzle.