Assessing the potential of SynBio in Environmental Applications:
Development and testing of frameworks to aid assessment of the impacts of engineering biology solutions based on existing studies and policy briefs. Medium-term objective (3-5 years): Conducting in-depth case studies of real-world applications of SynBio in environmental remediation to gather quantitative and qualitative data informing decision-making, stakeholder involvement, and outcomes. Long-term objective (5- 10 years): Quantifying and comparing the environmental benefits, risks, and limitations of Engineering Biology solutions in real-world environmental scenarios through field trials and monitoring.
Understanding Social, Ethical, and Public Perception:
Conducting baseline surveys and focus groups to gather public and industrial sector perceptions and attitude towards the use of SynBio and Engineering Biology in environmental applications, addressing terminology, ethics, safety, and public acceptance. Medium-term objective (3-5 years): Engaging actively with relevant UK stakeholders including devolved government agencies (e.g., Defra, SEPA, NRW, DSTL), learned societies and professional organisations (e.g., Royal Society of Biology, Royal Academy of Engineering), industry bodies (e.g., BioIndustry Association, Society of Chemical Industry, Unilever, UK Innovate), and non- governmental organisations (e.g., Forum for the Future, Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace, Environmental Justice Foundation) to understand their perspectives, mapping benefits, concerns and wider interests. Long-term objective (5-10 years): Developing guidelines and frameworks that incorporate public and stakeholder perspectives, ensuring responsible and inclusive decision- making processes for the deployment of Engineering Biology in environmental applications.
Environmental Risk Assessment and Regulation:
Short-term objective: Reviewing existing regulations and guidelines governing the use of SynBio in environmental applications, identifying potential gaps and areas for improvement. Medium-term objective (3-5 years): Developing standardized risk assessment methodologies and protocols for evaluating the environmental impact and safety of Engineering Biology, with a particular focus on the SynBio interventions, considering factors such as containment, monitoring, and potential ecosystem effects. Long-term objective (5- 10 years): Collaborating with regulatory agencies and international organisations to establish robust regulatory frameworks that promote the safe and responsible deployment of Engineering Biology in environmental applications.
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