"To ensure this carbon is stored for longer, we are also developing a trait to naturally slow decay by increasing metal accumulation in plants. Our trees accumulate metals from the soil, making their wood less digestible to fungi and slowing the return of CO2 to the atmosphere."
I really really like what you are doing here, but I have concerns about heavy metal accumulation in wood. I understand that you're talking about growing on old mining land, but what are the health implications of milling this wood? Accumulation of logs in a river after a flood? Beavers?
I want to emphasize I'm a fan of this kind of work, and LOVE the idea of faster growing, more durable wood. I think wood is a phenomenal building material as it is, and especially if it's storing even more carbon.
I really really like what you are doing here, but I have concerns about heavy metal accumulation in wood. I understand that you're talking about growing on old mining land, but what are the health implications of milling this wood? Accumulation of logs in a river after a flood? Beavers?
I want to emphasize I'm a fan of this kind of work, and LOVE the idea of faster growing, more durable wood. I think wood is a phenomenal building material as it is, and especially if it's storing even more carbon.