Synthetic biology, or “synbio,” is gaining attention due to its potential for preserving biodiversity and restoring natural ecosystems. The concept was introduced by Barbara Hobomin in 1980 when she described genetically engineered bacteria using recombinant DNA technology. As a branch of biotechnology, synthetic biology revolves around the science of utilizing genetic sequencing, editing, and modification to develop unnatural organisms or organic molecules capable of functioning within living systems.
Through synthetic biology, scientists can design and synthesize new sequences of DNA from scratch, enabling them to create unnatural organic molecules operative in living systems. This innovative endeavor is often referred to as ‘redesigning life.’
Use of Synthetic Biology in Preserving Biodiversity and Ecosystems
As per recent studies conducted in the USA, climate change could drive one-third of all animal and plant species on the planet towards extinction by 2070. However, synthetic biology could be a life-saving tool in this scenario. It could aid in creating sustainable production methods for bioenergy, drugs, and food, thereby reducing the detrimental impact on biodiversity.
An interesting application of synthetic biology is its usage in capturing carbon dioxide from industrial emissions. The captured gas can then be recycled into fuels through the use of microorganisms. Such transformations have the added benefit of protecting threatened species and providing synthetic alternatives to wildlife products, indirectly contributing to wildlife conservation.
In addition, synthetic biology could help address some of society’s most pressing issues, ranging from infectious diseases to drug development to sustainability. It provides scientists with a more efficient means to find solutions, thereby propelling innovation.
Concerns Regarding Synthetic Biology
Despite its benefits, synthetic biology brings along several concerns. Economically, it can induce a shift towards biotechnology-based economies, potentially disrupting rural economies and low-income tropical countries. Natural products, typically grown and harvested in these regions, could be replaced by advancements in synthetic biology.
From an environmental perspective, the creation of a new species or intense modification of existing ones can disrupt ecological balance as the activity and coexistence of these species with other organisms remain unpredictable.
Way Forward with Synthetic Biology
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals highlight the need to reduce emissions and reinstate ecological balance. However, achieving these goals calls for additional efforts such as reducing pollution and plastic waste from our industrial processes and day-to-day activities.
Synthetic biology can play a crucial role in meeting these objectives. Though it may not be the complete solution, it provides a starting point for countering severe environmental threats like chemical and plastic pollution, and removing carbon dioxide from the environment.
As promising as synthetic biology is, it should not overshadow the individual’s responsibility towards the environment. This means that while we harness synthetic biology to address environmental challenges, we must also remember to fulfill our roles and responsibilities towards environmental conservation.
