Synergies and trade-offs with the use of forest genetic resources for carbon sequestration and conservation in face of climate change

Genetic enhancement of photosynthetic assimilation by forest trees may comprise a powerful tool to help buffer anthropogenic carbon (C) emissions and thus mitigate the consequences of climate change.

Forest genetic research in Sweden have come a long way to enhance the growth of forest trees, generating up to 30% increase in aboveground production.

However, knowledge about the potential trade-offs and synergies associated with the use of forest genetic resources for other values and services expected from forests is almost completely lacking.

Here we will help fill this gap by conducting a comprehensive study that simultaneously evaluate how genetic variation in Scots pine in above ground production may influence carbon sequestration in soils (comprising a large part of carbon in forest ecosystems) and insect diversity associated with dead wood (which is a key resource for many red listed species in forests ecosystems).

We will work with a unique set of long-term plot-level experiments including a wide range of genetic material and replicated across a north-south climate gradient of Sweden.

This will allow us not only to evaluate how genetic variation in above ground production influences our responses but also assess to what extent responses will be influenced by changes in climate.

This project will deliver the science based decision support for the forest industry, policy makers and any nation ratifying the Kyoto protocol and the UNFCCC.