Advances in science have revolutionised humankind’s understanding and control over the natural world and the base processes of life itself. Increasingly, scientists will be able to modify and augment the genetic make-up of living matter and even create new forms of life.
Cheap and simple services, such as 23andme.com, are already available that enable individuals to get a map of their personal genetic profile for as little as US$99. There is expected to be a proliferation of businesses providing genetic services and information.
Advances in genetic science also offer the potential to create a range of new materials and life forms. One such advance is the race to develop the world’s first commercially viable lab-grown meat. In the production process, cells extracted from animals are cultured, grown on a framework and nurtured to look and taste like familiar meat-products.131 If accepted by consumers, this could revolutionise food production and help tackle world hunger as well as reduce humankind’s environmental impact.
Genetic engineering of new animals, plants and foods could become commonplace. Countries, regions and governance bodies will need to make crucial decisions about how to monitor, control and tax the output of these artificially engineered entities.