GE Tree Field Trials in Russia planned for October 2009

Little is known about GE tree research in Russia and even less about field trials. However, a research article published in September 2006 in “New Forests (Volume 32, Number 2), informs that a transgenic poplar (Populus tremula) was grown “outside during 3 years”, which means that there has been at least one open air GE tree field trial in this country.

Recent press articles have informed about plans to plant some 300,000 genetically modified aspens and birch trees -currently in greenhouses- in the open air near the cities of St. Petersburg and Nizhny Novgorod. According to those reports, planting would take place in the Autumn of 2009.

In order to raise awareness about this serious threat, WRM has produced an information sheet containing the basic information we have been able to compile on this issue. You can assist us in improving and updating the information sheet by sending us relevant information (see electronic form below).

Russia - WRM information sheets on GE tree research

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First posted: 8 July 2009

TAKEN FROM SEMANA.COM