Plantation Certification and Genetic Engineering: FSC's Ban on Research Is Counterproductive

Authors: Strauss S.H.¹; Campbell M.M.²; Pryor S.N.²; Coventry P.³; Burley J.⁴

Source: Journal of Forestry, Volume 99, Number 12, 1 December 2001 , pp. 4-7(4)

Publisher: Society of American Foresters

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Abstract:

Genetic engineering, also called genetic modification (GM), is the isolation, recombinant modification, and asexual transfer of genes. It has been banned in forest plantations certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) regardless of the source of genes, traits imparted, or whether for research or commercial use. We review the methods and goals of tree genetic engineering research and argue that FSC's ban on research is counterproductive because it makes it difficult for certified companies to participate in the field research needed to assess the value and biosafety of GM trees. Genetic modification could be important for translating new discoveries about tree genomes into improved growth, quality, sustainability, and pest resistance.

Keywords: biotechnology; entomology and pathology; ethics; genetics; silviculture; environmental management; forest; forest management; forest resources; forestry; forestry research; forestry science; natural resources; natural resource management

Document Type: Miscellaneous

Affiliations: 1: Professor Department of Forest Science, Oregon State University, Richardson Hall, Corvallis, OR, 97331-5752, steve.strauss@orst.edu 2: Lecturers Department of Plant Sciences, Oxford Forestry Institute, Oxford, UK 3: Associate Professional Officer UK Department for International Development, Pará, Brazil 4: Director Department of Plant Sciences, Oxford Forestry Institute, Oxford, UK

Publication date: 2001-12-01

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