GE trees may benefit the environment

GE trees may benefit the environment

Forest owners support the trial of genetically engineered (GE) radiata pine trees at Scion and are deeply disappointed that experimental plantings have been destroyed by vandals.

“GE has the potential to provide environmental and economic benefits over conventionally bred trees,” says Forest Owners Association senior policy analyst Glen Mackie.

“However these potential benefits need to be carefully weighed against the potential hazards. To do this we need to conduct sound research under New Zealand conditions. Then, and only then, will we be in a position to have an informed debate on the subject.

“Issues like this must be decided on the basis of scientific evidence, not fear and ignorance. This is not a time or place for Luddites.

“It is ironical that the trees destroyed in the trial had the potential to reduce the use of persistent herbicides in forest establishment and to eliminate the spread of wilding trees from plantations through the development of trees that don’t produce seeds.”

Mr Mackie says Scion scientists work within guidelines laid down by the Environmental Protection Agency, including strict protocols designed to ensure there is no risk to the environment.

ENDS

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