This report is about the power of engineering biology to drive economic growth and deliver enduring solutions to a wide range of complex problems in areas such as healthcare, environmental sustainability, agriculture and energy.
Put simply, engineering biology is the application of engineering principles to biological systems in ways that allow us to harness and control biology in predictable and useful ways. For example, to create novel products and processes that are safer, cleaner and more efficient.
As with other emerging technologies, communicating the benefits of engineering biology can be challenging due to the complex terminology involved. Our experience from previous Foresight projects is that a good way to cut through this barrier to greater understanding is to focus on the practical benefits and solutions offered by a technology via narratives that capture the imagination.

Commissioned by the Government Chief Scientific Adviser