Synthetic biology: Powering the future of sustainability
- Jamal El-Masri
- Jun 21
- 4 min read
The world confronts the intersecting crises of climate change, environmental degradation and resource scarcity, synthetic biology is gaining prominence as a versatile scientific tool with far-reaching implications. By designing and engineering biological systems that do not naturally exist, or reprogramming existing organisms for new functions, synthetic biology addresses several of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including climate action, responsible consumption and production, and industry, innovation and infrastructure.
The rise of synthetic biology: From concept to capability
Synthetic biology originated in the early 2000s, building on advances in genetic engineering and molecular biology. With roots in the convergence of biology and engineering disciplines, it draws on techniques such as gene synthesis, CRISPR-based editing, and metabolic engineering. The Human Genome Project and the advent of high-throughput DNA sequencing provided the foundation for this field, enabling scientists to understand, modify, and design genetic circuits with increasing precision.
The field has since evolved to include modular biological components, often referred to as "biobricks", which allow the construction of complex genetic systems in microbes, plants, and even synthetic cells. These capabilities are now being harnessed across sectors, from pharmaceuticals and agriculture to climate technology and biodegradable materials.
Engineering carbon capture: Microbes and materials
One of the most compelling applications of synthetic biology is its role in carbon capture and conversion. At Stanford University, scientists have reprogrammed microbes to extract atmospheric carbon dioxide and convert it into bioplastics and synthetic fibres—materials traditionally derived from petrochemicals. This bio-based approach not only reduces fossil fuel dependency but also supports a circular economy, where carbon is recycled into useful commodities.
ZymoChem's Carbon Conserving (C2) platform exemplifies next-generation biotechnology. Their engineered microbes retain more carbon from feedstocks during production processes, minimising CO₂ emissions while producing ingredients for hygiene and household products. This strategy directly contributes to net-zero targets and reduces pressure on landfills by replacing conventional, non-degradable materials.
A significant breakthrough is the Bionic Leaf, developed by Harvard and MIT researchers. It mimics photosynthesis by combining engineered bacteria with a solar-powered electrochemical system to convert sunlight, water and CO₂ into liquid fuels like isopropanol. Remarkably, the system is more efficient than natural photosynthesis and can be deployed in off-grid or developing areas to produce clean energy.
Biodegradable futures: Compostable polymers and materials
Bioplastics have long promised an alternative to petroleum-based plastics, but synthetic biology is enhancing their feasibility and performance. Researchers have developed biodegradable polymers using genetically engineered bacteria that ferment agricultural residues into polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). These materials decompose naturally and are suitable for packaging, consumer goods, and even medical applications.
In Australia, a university-industry collaboration led to the development of a compostable punnet made from PHAs and Radiata Pine sawdust—an innovation that could replace over 580 million plastic containers used annually for strawberries alone. (The Australian)
Constructive Bio and new-to-nature molecules
A bold direction in synthetic biology is the design of entirely new molecules. UK-based Constructive Bio, under CEO Ola Wlodek, engineers microbes to produce non-natural proteins and polymers. These biomanufacturing platforms can replace unsustainable industrial chemistry processes, enabling more efficient synthesis of pharmaceuticals, coatings, and sustainable plastics.
Smarter systems: AI, IoT and responsive biology
The integration of synthetic biology with artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionising the control and monitoring of bioprocesses. AI models optimise microbial pathways for enhanced yield and resilience, while IoT-enabled sensors track environmental parameters in real-time. This union enables scalable solutions for pollution control, wastewater treatment, and precision agriculture.
Innovative carbon sinks: Living porous ceramics
Emerging materials like living porous ceramics, embedded with photosynthetic cyanobacteria, showcase how synthetic biology can create dynamic systems for carbon capture. These engineered living materials autonomously regulate gas exchange and capture atmospheric CO₂, offering potential for climate-friendly architectural and industrial designs.
Towards climate-smart agriculture and food security
Synthetic biology also holds promise in agriculture. Genetically tailored crops withstand extreme weather, pests, and nutrient-deficient soils, reducing the need for chemical inputs. Additionally, lab-grown meat and alternative proteins derived from yeast or bacteria cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and land use, supporting more sustainable diets. (OECD)
The global context: Governance and ethics
As synthetic biology scales, ethical frameworks and regulatory oversight must evolve in tandem. Global institutions are exploring equitable access, biosafety standards, and the social implications of redesigning life. There is also a growing call to ensure that benefits are distributed globally, especially to communities most affected by environmental degradation. (Revolutionized)
Convergence and collaboration: Toward SDG alignment
Conferences such as SynBioBeta 2025 unite scientists, entrepreneurs and policymakers to share insights and forge partnerships. These global gatherings foster interdisciplinary collaboration and push synthetic biology closer to commercial viability and sustainable impact.
Future
Synthetic biology's intersection with climate technology, circular economy models, and green chemistry represents a pivotal frontier in sustainability science. Real-world achievements, from carbon-negative biofactories to artificial photosynthesis, demonstrate its potential to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
In the coming weeks, we will delve deeper into several of the projects introduced here, examining the technologies, partnerships, and policy frameworks that underpin their success. Stay connected as we uncover how synthetic biology is reshaping the blueprint for a sustainable global society.
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