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Develop Climate-Adaptive Tree Species for Future Forests

Climate change is altering growing conditions faster than forests can naturally adapt, threatening existing forest ecosystems while creating opportunities for new forest types in previously unsuitable areas. The challenge is developing tree species and varieties that can thrive under projected future climate conditions while maintaining forest ecosystem functions and economic value. This requires advanced breeding techniques, climate modeling, assisted migration strategies, and long-term adaptation planning. Current forest species may not survive in their traditional ranges under changing climate conditions, while natural adaptation is too slow to keep pace with rapid climate change. Technical barriers include predicting future climate conditions accurately, developing trees that can survive climate extremes, and managing the risks of introducing species to new environments. Success would ensure forest survival under climate change, maintain forest ecosystem services, enable proactive forest adaptation, and provide climate-resilient forestry options for future generations facing unprecedented environmental conditions.

Applied Sciences, Specialized Agriculture, Silviculture