Consensus documents contain information for use during the regulatory assessment of a particular product. In the area of crop biosafety, consensus documents are being published on the biology of certain crop species, on selected traits that may be introduced into crop species, and on biosafety issues arising from certain general types of modifications made to crops. This document addresses the biology of European White Birch. It contains general information as well as more specific information on taxonomy, forestry practices, centres of origin/diversity, reproductive biology, crosses, genetic variability and ecology. It is intended for use by regulatory authorities and others who have responsibility for assessments of transgenic plants proposed for commercialisation, and by those who are actively involved with genetic improvement and intensive management of the genus.