The planting of experimental genetically engineered (GE) spruce trees in New Zealand could undermine the certification of future timber exports, green groups have warned.
The fears follow confirmation by environmental groups that Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards forbid using genetic modifications in plantation timber.
Planting of GE trees was carried out by Forest Research a few weeks ago after approval from the Environment Risk Management Authority.
A group called “GE Free NZ in food and environment” wants to see GE testing to be carried out in laboratories rather than releasing “experimental and uncontrollable” GE organisms into the ecosystem.
Talks are ongoing between forest industry groups about how the FSC’s ban will be expressed in the country’s national standards.
