I do not believe that my own personal collection of plants ensures the
survival of a species, but there is a chance that as a group, hobbyists
and professional growers will maintain a genetically diverse collection
of material. Tissue culture and a coordinated breeding program among
growers would both be valuable tools.
Where will environmental science lead in the next century? I believe it will
lead to the study of ecosystems with an eye towards reverting clear cut
areas which have been depleted of soil nutrients and eroded to their former
state. The more species that have been preserved, the more likely this can
be done. Perhaps nepenthes and other carnivorous species have a bigger role
in such a plan than we can imagine since they do not require nutrient rich
soil.
I'm not usually an optimist, but I do not see how we can preserve the earth
if we do not take this route...