The scientific community should engage with the public and policy makers about new scientific tools created from biological systems, according to a statement issued today by the world science academies.
IAP: the global network of science academies, has released a statement on synthetic biology — a new field which constructs customised biological systems to perform new and improved functions, using principles from the world of engineering and chemistry.
The emerging field has potential applications in many areas including less expensive medicines, next generation biofuels, and novel methods for water purification.
Among the IAP recommendations are a call for greater discussion about how synthetic biology should be regulated and promoted; exploring alternative models for opening and sharing research outputs (such as open source); guidelines for scientific responsibility and codes of conduct; and better engagement with the public to clarify ethical and social concerns about synthetic biology.
In an article published in Nature today, one of IAP’s co-chairs Professor Volker ter Meulen said he hoped the statement ‘will spur debate on how best to feed scientific evidence that emerges from peer-reviewed research into the development of policy [including regulation]’.
‘The work is not proceeding entirely without regulation, as some claim; much of it is, in fact, governed by existing rules.'
Last year the IAP issued a statement on antimicrobial resistance with the InterAcademy Medical Panel.
The Australian Academy of Science is a member of the IAP and endorses this statement.
Read the full statement here.
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