Biotechnology: Working with Nature to Improve Forest Resources And Products

摘要

The role of biotechnology in the forest products industry is expanding beyond the pulp and paper industry. Applications that can contribute to forest sustainability include genetic engineering and phytoremediation. Genetic engineering makes it possible to modify forest trees for desirable traits, such as disease or pest resistance, and to replicate these improved trees by cloning. AN example of genetic modification that has direct environmental implications is phytoremediation, the use of genetically modified trees for soil remdeiation. PHytoremediation works by decontaminating toxic pollutants in the soil or by stabilizing and sequestering toxins. This paper provides an overview of recent publications in these new areas of biotechnology.