Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for preserving perishable substances includes a first compartment, a second compartment, a preservation gas source, and a control system. Each of the first and second compartments has an interior portion having a volumetric capacity of less than or equal to about 35 cubic feet. The control system is configured to deliver preservation gas from the preservation gas source separately to the interior portions of each of the first and second compartments such that the interior portions of each of the first and second compartments has a gaseous environment with an oxygen level less than about 20% when the first and second compartments are in a closed position. The oxygen level in the first compartment is different from the oxygen level in the second compartment. Other system and method embodiments are described and claimed.