Biotech Updates

Principles for the Responsible Use of Biotech Trees

March 25, 2011

A consensus-document on the use of and applications of biotech trees has been released by the Institute of Forest Biotechnology (IFB)  in Raleigh, North Carolina. Responsible Use: Biotech Tree Principles establishes ethical and responsible guidelines for the stewardship of biotech trees.

"All advanced technologies impact society and out environment. ... the Responsible Use Principles will continue to evolve with the rapid pace of scientific and social change, and that the process will be kept open and transparent. Biotechnology is a powerful tool, but views on its appropriate application vary widely. It must be used responsibly and in accord with social norms and laws, which are highly dynamic," said Dr. Steven Strauss of the Oregon State University and Member of the Implementation Committee for the Principles.

The document is available online at http://www.responsibleuse.org. The press release from IFB is at http://www.responsibleuse.org/material/Responsible_Use_Principles_press_release_12-09-2010.pdf.