Nine policy recommendations to put forest genetic diversity at the heart of conservation and climate policy
Experts at the International Conference on Population and Conservation Genetics (ICPCG 2026) have set out nine policy recommendations to integrate genetic and genomic knowledge into biodiversity, restoration and climate adaptation strategies.
Genetic diversity is what allows forests to adapt. Without it, tree populations have little room to cope with extreme climatic events and their effects. Yet it barely features in national policy. Researchers want that to change, and are calling for genetic and genomic data to shape national plans for conservation, restoration, and climate adaptation.
Their call heads a list of nine policy recommendations drawn up at the International Conference on Population and Conservation Genetics (ICPCG 2026), which took place in Coimbatore, India, from 28 to 30 January 2026. The event was organised by IUFRO Working Party 2.04.01 on Population, Ecological and Conservation Genetics and the Asia-Pacific Forest Genetic Resources Programme (APFORGEN).
In short, the recommendations call on decision makers to:
- Mainstream forest genetic diversity into climate and biodiversity policies
- Use genomic and genetic tools to guide conservation priorities and seed sourcing
- Protect and manage genetically vulnerable and isolated populations
- Leverage emerging genomic resources and technologies responsibly
- Accelerate climate-resilient tree breeding while maintaining genetic diversity
- Strengthen tree seed systems for restoration and climate adaptation
- Invest in capacity building and extension across the seed and restoration value chain
- Promote participatory approaches in forest genetic resource management
- Strengthen international and regional collaboration
Together, they offer a practical roadmap for policymakers, forest managers, and researchers working to conserve tree genetic resources in a changing climate.
Read the full recommendations in the ICPCG 2026 flyer (PDF).
