Dear associated scientists of the IUFRO 2.00.00 - PHYSIOLOGY AND GENETICS, FSC has opened a public consultation on the interpretation of the GMO policy regarding CRISPR technology. The initial interpretation is that CRISPR is GMO. Scientific evidence shows that CRISPR is a modern mutagenesis tool, and since FSC accepts mutagenesis as a conventional breeding tool, CRISPR should be considered NON-GMO. As you know, genome editing with CRISPR is a tool that is being evaluated on different Universities and laboratories worldwide, and we expect that will allows to generate high-value genetic material that can benefit the forest sector, but FSC’s acceptance is essential to be implemented. I am attaching a supporting document with the information that justifies the definition of CRISPR as NON-GMO. Since FSC’s consultation is public, anyone can respond (you just need to create an account) and answer a couple of questions. I would greatly appreciate your support in participating in this public consultation. Best regards, Dr. Claudio Balocchi Investigador Senior/Senior Researcher Bioforest S.A. Claudio.balocchi@arauco.com<mailto:Claudio.balocchi@arauco.com> +56 9 81297352 Concepción – Chile [Image.gif]