From HONG L.T. of IPGRI-APO, Malaysia

I shall contribute my narrow views on this topic even though much has already been discussed by those messages posted so far.

I agree with Dr. Trevor Fenning [19 May], who has stated that if most of those factors (that are listed in his email message) are not addressed then biotechnology will not be of much help. Any genetic modifications are bound to carry with it some degrees of unpredictable risks as mentioned by Dr. Burton [6 June]. However, the use of biotechnology for establishing forest plantations in forestry is not an answer to all the questions or problems (see Toby Bradshaw's discussion [25 May ]).

# Yes, trees in most developing countries have a shorter rotation, therefore any undesirable or detrimental transgenetic effects will be manifested in a shorter time compared to temperate trees.

# The use of biotechnology in whatever form is a valuable tool for intensifying efforts, not only to ensure the continued supply of sustainable wood or fibre resource but also as a means of replenishing deforested areas.

# However this does not mean that the stringent precautions and testing of biotechnology (genetically modification) produced planting stocks should not be observed. When used with all the associated safety protocols observed I think biotechnology is of tremendous help to supplement the dwindling supply of timber (fibres).

# The success of obtaining "genetically modified (GM)" (although using conventional breeding and cloning techniques which are not genetic modification in the true sense) rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis ) to produce increased latex yields from about 300kg per ha. to about 1500-2000 kg/ha. is a tremendous achievement.

# I am not an advocate for large scale plantings of GM forest trees as yet. Many reasons against this have been given in the previous messages posted. However, biotechnology should be used as a tool to increase the productivity of forestry especially for timber (or fibre) production. Of course there are many hurdles to be overcome before this realisation could take place.

Hong L.T. ( Mr.)
Bamboo & Rattan and FGR Specialist
International Plant Genetic Resources [ IPGRI ],
Region Office for Asia, the Pacific and Oceania,
P.O. Box 236, UPM Post Office,
43400 Serdang, Selangor, MALAYSIA

Tel: +60-(0)3-89423891 Ext: 206
Fax: +60-(0)3-89487655
Email: [email protected]
IPGRI is a Future Harvest Centre

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