Protecting biodiversity through seed testing: Sergio Pasquini, Quality Manager at the Italian National Centre for Carabinieri Biodiversity, at the 2026 ISTA Annual Meeting
August 2026
In an interview recorded at the 2026 ISTA Annual Meeting in Calgary, Sergio Pasquini, Quality Manager at the Italian National Centre for Carabinieri Biodiversity, shared insights into his work in forest seed testing and his role as ISTA Vice President.
Sergio explained that his specialised laboratory focuses mainly on native forest species, including trees, shrubs, and native flowers, supporting biodiversity conservation in Italy. At the national level, the laboratory serves as a reference point for the sector, providing guidance from seed production and nurseries through to seed distribution. Sergio highlighted new technologies as both a challenge and an opportunity for seed testing, helping laboratories improve knowledge, methods, and efficiency. He also emphasised the importance of ISTA accreditation in maintaining high-quality standards and ensuring continuous development within laboratories.
As Chair of the Tetrazolium Committee, Sergio was particularly interested in discussions on new technologies and the committee’s work during the Annual Meeting. He also underlined the value of face-to-face networking, encouraging ISTA members to actively engage, ask questions, and share ideas to further strengthen the global seed testing community.
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