Purdue University researchers in the United States are looking into the possibility of genetically modifying the lignin of the plant cell walls in poplar trees, so that the cellulose within can be easily extracted for ethanol production, without compromising the structural integrity of the growing plant.

Poplars are said to have several benefits over traditional row crops such as corn. They do not require intensive inputs. They don’t have to be harvested every year, and therefore the grower has the option to leave the trees for another year (for example), while waiting for prices to improve. Several varieties of poplars can also grow in a wide range of climates, from subtropical to sub-alpine areas. Pilot scale fermentation studies will be conducted to determine the yield of fermentable sugars obtained from the modified trees..