Woody crop longevity target from new joint venture

US-based agricultural technology company Arcadia Biosciences (AB) has signed an agreement with international woody crops enhancement business FuturaGene to look into sustainable development of eucalyptus and poplar trees.

The contract will allow FuturaGene exclusive use of AB’s nitrogen and water use efficiency technologies, which both aim to increase tree yields while reducing resource inputs and their associated environmental consequences.

‘Plantation forestry is an important and renewable resource, providing socio-economic as well as environmental benefits,’ says AB CEO Eric Rey. ‘Planned and managed forestry preserves water quality, enhances biodiversity and contributes to carbon sequestration. As global demand for wood products increases, sustainable intensification by increasing and protecting yields will reduce pressures for extensive expansion.’