The role of biotechnology in Swedish forestry

The researchers in this project will examine the role of biotechnology in Swedish forestry, focusing on how societal trust and legitimacy are established. The goal is to develop strategies for improved science communication that foster mutual trust and informed discussion between research, industry and the public.

By analyzing historical debates about tree breeding, examining contemporary forestry actors’ arguments about naturalness, and engaging in dialogue with stakeholders on biotechnology, the researchers aim to generate novel knowledge that strengthens both science communication and societal discussion.

Over the past decades, biotechnology has been surrounded by both hopes and concerns, rooted in critical questions about ethics, safety and what could be considered as ‘natural’. But while the scientific debate has been comparatively positive about the possibilities of biotechnology, the broader public discourse has been marked by concern, skepticism, and hesitation regarding new technology in this field.

Different sectors’ views on biotechnology influence the interaction between research and the public and ultimately underpin the legitimacy of science in society. It is therefore crucial to study forests and biotechnology with a focus on questions of trust and their philosophical perspectives.

By identifying key issues and potential areas of conflict,  the researchers aim to contribute to a more nuanced and inclusive discussion about the role of biotechnology in the future of forestry.

The researchers will examine historical debates on tree breeding in Sweden from the early 20^th century to the 1970s and analyze how forest genetics expertise influenced public discourse, analyze stakeholders' arguments regarding biotechnology in forestry from the 1990s to the present day, with a focus on trust in scientific expertise, and explore philosophical perspectives on ‘natural’ versus ‘artificial’ forests and how views on different tree breeding methods have evolved. The focus is on how climate change can challenge traditional perceptions on naturalness and potentially redefine genetic modification as a necessary adaptation for forestry.