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Project title

Environmental regulation of synthetic biology: anticipating future regulatory oversights

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)

Lead Applicant

Peter Singleton

Project Abstract

Expert opinion suggests that most synthetic biology activities in the UK and Europe fall within the limits of the Contained Use Regulations and that the current GMO risk assessment is sufficient but may need to be adapted as knowledge grows regarding synthetic biology. The first generation of synthetic biology microorganisms are not very different from those created through other genetic engineering techniques. However, as the discipline matures it is possible that increasing numbers of complex and novel organisms could be produced that are intended to perform a function which requires an environmental release. This will yield consequences that are impossible to anticipate with today�s knowledge There is a clear need for the UK and Republic of Ireland environmental agencies to consider if current environmental regulations are sufficiently robust to protect the public good against any unique threats which could emerge as the commercial applications of synthetic biology increase. 1) A detailed Report including:- a) A detailed analysis / graphs and infographics of the major timelines in the developing synthetic biology industry b) Potential environmental risks which could evolve as the synthetic biology technology and industry matures 2) Including sections with in depth analysis of the following questions :- a) What is the potential market penetration, and areas of innovation, which the commercial application of synthetic biology might bring in the next 5 to 10 years? i) Including evidence which could establish for the 5 agencies the likely scale of impact b) Does synthetic biology present unique risks that are unconsidered by present regulatory approaches and what are these risk likely to be? i) Evidence which would allow the 5 agencies to understand the possible regulatory challenges in the present and near future that synthetic biology activities might bring 4) A summary of how each risk might potentially impact the Environment and the possible consequences for the Environment agencies with examples and/or visualisations which could inform non-experts in the agencies 5) Evidence (with transparent source references) that can be used by the agencies to support any public engagement on synthetic biology also in if possible visual or graphical presentation

Grant Approved

�11,112.21

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Natural capital and ecosystem services including soils and biodiversity

Start Date

01/02/2016

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/12/2016