Engineering biology

Thanks to advancements in DNA synthesis, editing, and sequencing and developments in AI, biological systems can now be engineered with greater speed and accuracy and with significantly reduced time and costs.

The latest report from the Capgemini Research Institute, Unlocking the potential of engineering biology: The time is now, looks at how engineering biology can be applied in different sectors and how it has the power to transform industries. It also examines biosolutions from a sustainability perspective.

The report draws insights from a survey of 1,100 executives at large organizations (with over $1 billion in annual revenue) across 11 industries globally, as well as 500 executives from startups in the field of engineering biology and related domains.

The report found that advances in engineering biology have far-reaching implications in virtually every industry, including healthcare, agriculture, consumer goods, fashion, energy, mining, automotive, and aerospace and defense. Nearly all the executives surveyed acknowledged that biosolutions would disrupt their industry. Approximately half of those expect this transformation within the next five years, while others see it occurring over a 5–10 year period or longer.

Nearly all organizations (96%) are pursuing biosolutions, and corporate investment in biosolutions is expected to increase steadily. The main benefits organizations expect include environmental gains, such as decreased pollution, waste, and emissions, as well as enhanced product safety and performance. Additionally, biosolutions are expected to reduce resource dependency and mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities.

Digital and engineering technologies such as AI and digital twins play a key role in driving the widespread adoption of biosolutions. By leveraging these technologies, organizations can reduce costs, streamline bioprocesses, and expedite the time-to-market for biosolutions. They can also help mitigate environmental and societal risks, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Most executives (72%) believe biosolutions will significantly accelerate their progress toward sustainability objectives. They anticipate that biosolutions will have a positive impact on mitigating climate change, as well as reducing plastic and air pollution. Nevertheless, harnessing the full potential of these biosolutions hinges on their effective implementation and utilization.

Download Unlocking the power of engineering biology: The time is now to learn more about the possibilities of engineering biology.