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Forest Biotechnology Futures

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Challenges and Opportunities for the World's Forests in the 21st Century

Part of the book series: Forestry Sciences ((FOSC,volume 81))

Abstract

The contribution of forest biotechnology to the future of our global forests is explored. Questions relating to how forest biotechnology can most appropriately fully contribute to achieving sustainable development goals in the light of REDD + and the United Nations Rio + 20 developments are raised. Opportunities for international support for preservation of old growth forest areas, whilst allowing for other areas to be semi-managed, or used for high density plantation forestry are discussed. The role of ‘trees of technology’ using modified practices or genetic components in tree breeding are described, with reference to future energy, pulp, food and construction uses. The crucial role of biotechnology in conserving forest biodiversity and uniquely valuable tree genotypes is evaluated. The current and future potential for leading edge biotechnological breakthroughs in manipulating rapid growth, extending geographical ranges, developmental control of flowering, carbohydrate commitment, ‘omics technologies and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses are explored. The ability of forest biotechnology to contribute to delivering economic, societal and environmental benefits globally is discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK

    Kevan M. A. Gartland & Jill S. Gartland

Authors
  1. Kevan M. A. Gartland
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  2. Jill S. Gartland
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Kevan M. A. Gartland .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Forest Research, Northern Research Station, UK Forestry Commission, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

    Trevor Fenning

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Gartland, K.M.A., Gartland, J.S. (2014). Forest Biotechnology Futures. In: Fenning, T. (eds) Challenges and Opportunities for the World's Forests in the 21st Century. Forestry Sciences, vol 81. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-7076-8_23

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