World's First DNA Identification Technology to Trace Wood Products

Sumitomo Forestry Co., Ltd. announced on October 15, 2007, that it has developed technology to identify tree species and to trace wood products, such as seedlings, trees, timber or plywood, from afforested forests. The technology was possible due to technical developments in the world's first individual DNA identification technique for wood.

The technology can help scientifically and objectively verify that timber or wood products come from forests planted with several varieties and under sustainable forest management. It will boost accuracy of traceability of wood products from mountain bases to end users, and is expected to be used as a promising quality management technology.

The identification method is easily performed with specific equipment. As it is both rapid and inexpensive, the technology is expected to be used extensively. Utilizing its business experience, the company plans to offer a comprehensive business package combining the development of high quality tree species, tree farming and scientific verification of the legality of wood products from forests under sustainable forest management.

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Posted: 2008/02/18 10:49:11 AM
Japanese version