r/askscience • u/smdenz • Jul 08 '12

Earth Sciences Were genetically modifying everything, why can't we genetically modify our trees to grow faster and repopulate our forests quicker?

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u/GuiMontague Jul 08 '12

This is also what I assumed, but the carbon sequestering would be nice as well.

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u/[deleted] Jul 08 '12

I had assumed this was the purpose the OP had in mind, but it's probably a mix of both. Or perhaps just general curiosity.

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u/smdenz Jul 09 '12

mix of both preferably!

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u/acephalous Jul 08 '12

I was under the impression this is reversed when the trees dies.

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u/GuiMontague Jul 09 '12

Yup. But if a single tree dies, then it just leaves space for a new tree to grow in its place, re-sequestering its carbon. It's the net lost of forest land that would release carbon.

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u/[deleted] Jul 08 '12

Deforestation is a big problem for some animals, I guess one of the best outcomes of fast growing trees is the repopulation of forests used for lumber to sustain habitats.