Bioengineered trees? It makes you wonder if anything is pure or natural anymore. Along with genetically engineered crops, trees may be another scientifically modified plant. Recently, federal regulators cleared the testing of bioengineered trees, specifically eucalyptus. The purpose is to see if these trees with a foreign gene will be capable of withstanding the cold weather. If they do well, these types of trees might be used for pulp and paper production. But what could this mean for the environment?
For some, trees have a quiet majestic quality. Certain species of trees live so long—who knows, they could be wiser than us. Those of us who have an emotional attachment to forests will find bioengineered trees a horrific action. On one hand, this experiment is meant to create a more sustainable way for harvesting trees for paper companies, but at what cost to the environment? It’s unclear as to how these bioengineered trees will affect the surrounding area as well as wildlife.
Experiment Details
Eucalyptus trees with a foreign gene will be used to determine if they’re strong enough to overcome the harsh winter weather. In the field trial, more than 200,000 of these genetically modified trees will be planted on 28 sites, which combined make up 300 acres.
Again, the purpose of this trial is to determine if this modified tree could be planted in the Southern timber belt where freezing spells occur. If they do survive, these types of trees may be planted in the future and used for pulp, paper and biofuels.
Environmental Concerns
With stronger crops that are resistant to viruses, we have created super organisms. So what will come from bioengineered trees? While this can’t really be predicted at this time, it’s obvious that some type of consequence (positive or negative) will occur.
However, some critics are laying the top concerns and potential risks right on the table. These include the fact that eucalyptus trees are heavy users of water, they harbor fungi, and they could spread fires quicker. These seem like valid concerns, but until the experiment is complete, we won’t know much more about the potential side effects of this trial run.
