Scientists create genetically modified super trees

An American biotech startup company has succeeded in creating genetically modified trees, dubbed “super trees” that can absorb more carbon dioxide, which could make reforestation initiatives much more effective, reports the Fast Company magazine.

The Living Carbon company has modified a growth enzyme, causing the trees to grow faster, so that they can absorb and store more CO2 than ordinary trees. In addition, the company works to slow down the rate of decomposition of trees by making it possible for them to absorb copper and nickel, which act as fungicides. Fungi accelerate their decomposition, but with this modification the tree would take time to decompose and the carbon would remain inside it for longer.

Trees that don’t produce seeds?

The new trees could be great allies to reduce the amount of CO2 in the planet’s atmosphere. Photo: Jorge Rodríguez / Viatori

On the other hand, Living Carbon suggests that there is not enough space on the planet to plant the trees necessary to offset greenhouse gas emissions. So, in theory, making each tree more effective at absorbing carbon dioxide becomes an attractive proposition.

However, these trees, as well as other genetically modified plants, may not obtain authorization from the corresponding authorities for mass planting. Although its creators claim that the type of tree they are working with now, a hybrid of two species of poplars, can only reproduce through cuttings, and does not produce seeds that could spread to other places, one of the problems posed by the activists.

Source: RT in spanish