Poplars are cultivated, for example, to produce wood for the paper industry. In recent years, genetic engineering has been used to change the characteristics of poplars, e.g. for faster growth or higher yields. The use of genetic engineering can also result in characteristics that are unlikely to be achieved with conventional breeding.
The cultivation of genetically modified poplars could have a negative impact on the environment, as poplars can spread via pollen and seeds as well as via root suckers or broken branches. They can also crossbreed with native poplar species.
Natural poplar populations could be endangered or displaced. Naturally-occurring poplars include, for example, the black poplar, which is on the Red List of endangered plant species. Insects that have adapted to black poplar will also be threatened if these trees are displaced.