This is the introduction to the IFB's founding document. For copies of the entire document, please contact us . Effective and responsible application of biotechnology to forestry can in coming decades yield enormous ecological, societal, and economic benefits worldwide. Forest biotechnology will also create significant issues - societal and ethical as well as environmental, policy, and economic. Addressing these issues, and ensuring appropriate and beneficial development of transgenic trees, will be challenging.
Genomic sciences can prove particularly valuable in finding solutions.
That impact must be carefully shaped. Uses of forest biotechnology must be evaluated for safety and appropriateness. Science and research, industry and commercialization, issues and policy, ecology and environment, must be merged and addressed. Varied parties must be assisted and brought into a cohesive framework. Thoughtful, innovative partnerships will be required.