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Engineering biology applications for environmental solutions: potential and challenges

Author

Listed:
  • David J. Lea-Smith

    (University of East Anglia)

  • Francis Hassard

    (Cranfield University)

  • Frederic Coulon

    (Cranfield University)

  • Natalie Partridge

    (GitLife Biotech Ltd)

  • Louise Horsfall

    (University of Edinburgh)

  • Kyle D. J. Parker

    (University of Edinburgh)

  • Robert D. J. Smith

    (University of Edinburgh)

  • Ronan R. McCarthy

    (Brunel University London)

  • Boyd McKew

    (University of Essex)

  • Tony Gutierrez

    (Heriot-Watt University)

  • Vinod Kumar

    (Cranfield University)

  • Gabriella Dotro

    (Cranfield University)

  • Zhugen Yang

    (Cranfield University)

  • Natalio Krasnogor

    (GitLife Biotech Ltd
    Newcastle University)

Abstract

Engineering biology applies synthetic biology to address global environmental challenges like bioremediation, biosequestration, pollutant monitoring, and resource recovery. This perspective outlines innovations in engineering biology, its integration with other technologies (e.g., nanotechnology, IoT, AI), and commercial ventures leveraging these advancements. We also discuss commercialisation and scaling challenges, biosafety and biosecurity considerations including biocontainment strategies, social and political dimensions, and governance issues that must be addressed for successful real-world implementation. Finally, we highlight future perspectives and propose strategies to overcome existing hurdles, aiming to accelerate the adoption of engineering biology for environmental solutions.

Suggested Citation

  • David J. Lea-Smith & Francis Hassard & Frederic Coulon & Natalie Partridge & Louise Horsfall & Kyle D. J. Parker & Robert D. J. Smith & Ronan R. McCarthy & Boyd McKew & Tony Gutierrez & Vinod Kumar & , 2025. "Engineering biology applications for environmental solutions: potential and challenges," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-58492-0
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-58492-0
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