Feed aggregator

Scientists at the VIB-UGent Centre for Plant Systems Biology and VIVES University College have developed a new method to genetically improve poplar trees without introducing foreign DNA into its genome. Source: Timberbiz Gene editing tools like CRISPR are revolutionizing plant science by allowing precise and targeted improvements to plant traits, such as wood quality, disease resistance, or drought tolerance. However, in many cases, the gene-editing ‘machinery’ is permanently integrated into the plant’s DNA, creating regulatory obstacles to using the plants. In annual crops like maize or rice, this problem is often solved by crossing plants to remove the foreign DNA. But trees like poplar take years to reach maturity, rendering this approach slow and possibly leading to the loss of desirable traits. Now, researchers led by Prof. Wout Boerjan (VIB-UGent) have developed a new method that prevents this issue. Instead of integrating the CRISPR system into the plant’s genome, the researchers used a technique called transient transformation. Using Agrobacterium tumefaciens — a bacterium commonly used in plant biotechnology — they introduced the CRISPR molecules into poplar cells, where they temporarily performed genetic edits without becoming part of the tree’s DNA. “The key innovation,” says Prof Boerjan, “is that the gene-editing tool does its job and then disappears without leaving a genetic trace behind.” To ensure that no CRISPR traces remained, the team used an advanced technique called long-read whole-genome sequencing, which scans the entire genome for even the smallest fragments of foreign DNA. Dr Lennart Hoengenaert (VIB-UGent), first author of the study, reports that nearly half of the regenerated poplar shoots were completely free of foreign DNA. “This is crucial,” he explains, “because it brings these gene-edited trees closer to being treated like conventionally bred plants under upcoming European regulations. “This method offers a clear and practical path to creating trees that are more sustainable, climate-resilient, and easier to regulate,” says Prof Boerjan. “It could accelerate the deployment of genetically enhanced trees, with benefits for both the environment and the bio-based economy.”

A new national forest stretching from the Cotswolds to the Mendips is set to be created, adding at least 2,500 hectares of new woodland to the West of England. Source: Timberbiz The government manifesto committed to three new national forests and this new Western Forest will serve more than 2.5 million residents, the government has said, bringing trees and woodlands closer to urban centres such as Bristol, Gloucester and Swindon. The Western Forest will be spearheaded by the Forest of Avon, one of England’s Community Forests, supported by up to £7.5 million of government funding over five years, alongside accelerating tree-planting in local areas. The project will work to revitalise existing woodlands and other important habitats to create a forest network for people and wildlife at a truly landscape scale. The new national forest will help the drive to net zero while promoting economic growth and creating jobs in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and across the West of England, as part of the Government’s Plan for Change. It will also help the UK meet its nature and legal environment targets including halting the decline of species and protecting 30% of land for nature by 2030. “The Government was elected on a mandate to plant three new national forests this parliament, as part of our commitment to reach net zero and drive sustainable growth under the Government’s Plan for Change. We will plant 20 million trees in the Western Forest to bring nature closer to people, prevent flooding and support wildlife,” Nature Minister Mary Creagh said. Alex Stone, Chief Executive of Forest of Avon, England’s Community Forests, added that the Forest of Avon is thrilled to have led a wonderfully diverse and engaged partnership to bring the Western Forest to life. “This is about resource, funding and expertise coming directly to landowners, partners and communities, planting millions of trees in the right places. Together, we will enhance landscapes for all to enjoy, improving the lives of our 2.5 million residents and visitors to the region. “Encompassing two of England’s Community Forests and working alongside the National Forest Company and Defra, the Western Forest will enhance, connect and improve our urban and rural landscapes, support investment into the region, create jobs and skills opportunities and bring the endless benefits we get back from planting and caring for our trees. It is a very exciting time for this region, and we look forward to helping shape what the Western Forest will become.”

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Mirova, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers dedicated to sustainable investing, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to unlock responsible finance for planted forests, sustainable management of natural forests, and other land-use projects. Source: Timberbiz This strategic alliance aims to address some of the world’s most pressing environmental and social challenges, including deforestation, soil degradation, climate change, biodiversity loss, and to promote equitable economic development and inclusiveness. Sustainable forest management is essential for enhancing climate resilience, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring decent livelihoods for local communities. In 2022, the world lost 6.6 million hectares of forests, primarily in tropical regions, contributing to significant biodiversity loss and an increase of 2.7 gigatonnes of CO2 emissions. Through their partnership, FSC and Mirova aim to champion best-in-class forest conservation, large-scale reforestation, and responsible production of forest-based materials. By channelling investments into FSC-certified solutions, the partnership seeks to drive measurable impact in climate adaptation and mitigation, biodiversity preservation, and social inclusion, with a strong focus on empowering women and Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. FSC and Mirova will work together to identify high-impact investment opportunities and implement forestry projects through the Mirova Sustainable Land Fund 2, which focuses on sustainable land management and ecosystem restoration. With an initial focus on Central and South America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia, the partnership will prioritize building a robust pipeline of forestry initiatives that deliver measurable environmental and social benefits and aims to implement the best sustainable forestry and reforestation practices within timber and other forest resource value chains. “Our partnership with FSC will enable us to direct capital toward high-quality forestry projects that not only protect vital ecosystems but also empower local communities,” Gautier Queru, Managing Director, Natural Capital, Mirova said. “By investing in these sustainable initiatives, we seek to enhance the potential for long-term financial returns, demonstrating that responsible investing can yield both environmental and economic benefits for all, while addressing urgent challenges like deforestation and climate change.” Subhra Battacharjee, Director General, FSC International said that Forests are global public good in their role as a critical line of defense against climate change and biodiversity loss. They also provide food, livelihoods and ecosystem services to over 1.6 billion people. “Our partnership with Mirova represents a major step toward aligning responsible investment with responsible forest management, ensuring forests continue to support people and the planet for generations to come,” he said. This partnership underscores the critical role of sustainable finance in scaling nature-based solutions to address global sustainability challenges. By integrating impact-driven investment strategies with FSC-certified forestry projects, FSC and Mirova are setting a new precedent for leveraging financial markets to drive environmental and social progress.