Ecotechnological solutions to satisfy current demands of forest products, a glance beyond the trees

Abstract

A significant increase in the demand for wood products, including timber, pulp and biofuels has exerted considerable pressure on the world's remaining natural forests. To expand the forest area by establishing forest plantations has been proposed as a way out to satisfy current and future demands, as well as to mitigate expected increases in atmospheric carbon. Specialized scientists in forestry and tree biotechnology advocate that humanity should rely on biotechnological solutions, particularly GM tree plantations, to achieve sustainable and more productive forest plantations. During the last decade, significant advances have occurred in both molecular methodologies and basic understanding of biotechnological processes associated with timber production. However, important sectors of civil society have showed reticence, even open opposition, towards these eco-technological solutions. This article explores on the one hand the rationale of the academic sector in promoting biotechnological solutions to satisfy current demands of forest products and biofuels, and on the other, analyzes society's opposition towards these solutions. The academic sector needs to understand where the resistance towards the development and establishment of these highly innovative technologies stems. Scientists need to become better at framing the importance of scientific research to citizens, at eliciting public participation and fostering public dialogue about science.