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Re: [SANET-MG] The usefulness of GM trees



Replying to Michael Elvin's query, will aspen trees genetically modified
to produce low lignin would that be good or bad?
The low lignin character is being tested in a number of trees  including
aspen and poplar. The trees are unlikely to produce "more" cellulose but
will reduce the cost of separating the cellulose fibers from lignin and
reduce pollution from the toxic chemicals used to achieve the removal of
lignin from cellulose. Plant structures are built rather like buildings
using reinforced concrete. Cellulose is the reinforcing rods while
lignin serves as the concrete. Lignin also provides defense against
invading pathogens, from insects to fungi, virus and bacteria.
So, the good news is that low lignin trees save money and pollution if
pulping, the bad news is that the low lignin trees have greatly reduced
  defense against disease and will require use of chemical and/or
genetic pesticides to survive. It is as if they had plant AIDS.
The main point is that the trade off should be recognized before mega
acres of GM trees are planted.
There is an interesting side issue regarding grazing and  fodder quality
for animal production. The quality of graze and fodder is greatly
effected by lignin which reduces feed quality. Low lignin graze and
fodder are being tested but as in the case of GM trees that  will
require heavy input of pesticides which makes chemical companies tingle
with joy at the prospect.
Hope this helps. Sincerely, joe Cummins
Michael Elvin wrote:

I comment less and less nowadays to this forum, as I always get such a
nasty reception. So I will present the thesis without comment.

A new aspen has been developed with a suppressed gene that increases its
cellulose content and reduces its lignin content. Adoption of this tree
in pulp farms would reduce the footprint (in acreage) required to meet
the world's need for paper products. Fewer acres in tree farms would
mean more acres available for some other use.

Would that make it good or bad?

http://www.truthabouttrade.org/article.asp?id=3324

 

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