Changing genes for a changing climate: genetic intervention as a tool for biodiversity conservation in the era of climate change
Other Scholarly Work
Erwin, JA. (2024). Changing genes for a changing climate: genetic intervention as a tool for biodiversity conservation in the era of climate change
. 315-336. 10.4337/9781800370296.00024
Erwin, JA. (2024). Changing genes for a changing climate: genetic intervention as a tool for biodiversity conservation in the era of climate change
. 315-336. 10.4337/9781800370296.00024
Climate change and other intractable threats to biodiversity will continue into the foreseeable future. In order to avoid extinction, wildlife must rapidly evolve to these changing conditions; however, the rate of change makes it difficult for many species to keep up. Scientists can now intervene by changing genomes to make organisms more resistant to changing climates or introduced diseases. Genetic interventions can eradicate or substantially weaken invasive species and disease-vectors. Even extinct species might be resurrected. However, genetic intervention also brings risk and uncertainty that our legal systems must rise to address. In this chapter, I discuss: types of genetic intervention; gaps in coverage within conservation laws and biotechnology regulations; uncertainties in performing risk and impact assessments; integrating social concerns into impact assessments, and the need for an inclusive and participatory decision-making structure. Ultimately, both wildlife and our legal frameworks must similarly evolve to meet the challenge of climate change.
