Plantation certification and genetic engineering: FSC's ban on research iscounterproductive

Genetic engineering, also called genetic modification (GM), is the isolatio n, recombinant modification, and asexual transfer of genes. It has been ban ned in forest plantations certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) regardless of the source of genes, traits imparted, or whether for researc h or commercial use. We review the methods and goa Is of tree genetic engin eering research and argue that FSC's ban on research is counterproductive b ecause it makes it difficult for certified companies to participate in the field research needed to assess the value and biosafety of GM trees. Geneti c modification could be important for translating new discoveries about tre e genomes into improved growth, quality, sustainability, and pest resistanc e.