 19 February 2015 Registration and call for abstracts are open for a forthcoming symposium on forest biotechnology for smallholders from 19-22 May 2015, Brazil. The recommendations of the Global Plan of Action for the Conservation, Development and Sustainable Use of Forest Genetic Resources, adopted by the FAO Conference in June 2013, identified the use of new technologies, including biotechnology, as a strategic priority. Biotechnology can contribute to meet the rising global demand for forest products such as wood, paper, woodfuel, and non-wood forest products which is predicted for some products to double by 2030. Planted forests from smallholder farmers will play a major role to meet this demand to avoid the overexploitation and degradation of natural forests. Organized by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, FAO and the Brazilian Federation of Workers on Family Farms, this symposium will share knowledge and experiences on the use of biotechnology to improve productivity, sustainable forest management and support industrial wood production by family farmers, including outgrowers. Researchers, students, public policy experts, and representatives of the private sector and civil society are welcome. Deadline for abstract submission is 20th March 2015. [ more] |
