Global Future Council on Synthetic Biology
Global Future Council on Synthetic Biology

Council mission and objectives
Synthetic biology is developing tools and frameworks to design the building blocks of life. This ability promises to revolutionize economies and societies, offering new approaches to transform industries and overcome global challenges. The impact areas are manifold: synthetic biology is driving innovation in manufacturing, healthcare, energy production, information storage, environmental remediation, materials and many more. However, these impacts so far are being driven and felt by a select few globally. As synthetic biology matures, we have choices in how we shape the future. How can we realize the potential of synthetic biology to benefit people and the planet?
The Global Future Council on Synthetic Biology is re-examining the past and the future of synthetic biology, considering what values can guide more effective, equitable and ethical outcomes, and developing the stories and strategies we need to realize the futures we desire.
Forum Council Manager:
- Cameron Fox, Project Specialist, Precision Medicine - Shaping the Future of Health and Healthcare, World Economic Forum
Council Co-Chairs
Forum Agenda blogs
Latest publications
Mobilizing thought leadership for impact
The Global Future Councils serve as a brain trust for leaders from government, business and civil society, and support the Forum’s mission by bringing together experts bound by a shared mission to discuss the most critical issues, generate insights and analysis, and collaborate in shaping agendas.
Related articles

Why sharing data is crucial for progress in bioeconomy
Data and its benefits are crucial when it comes to biotechnology but if they're not shared globally, we are missing out on making the most of the industry.

Lessons learned from COVID-19 vaccines could advance synthetic biology. Here's how
Intellectual property waivers for COVID-19 vaccines could change the course of synthetic biology, enabling the democratic distribution of technologies.

Realizing the potential of synthetic biology to help people and the planet
Members of the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council explore what's needed to realize synthetic biology's potential - and why we'll need to revisit and rethink the societal transfo...

Explore strategic insights and contextual intelligence on biotechnology from the World Economic Forum
The World Economic Forum developed Strategic Intelligence to help you understand the global forces at play and make more informed decisions. Explore and monitor the issues and forces driving transformational change across more than 250 areas, including economies, industries and global issues, and identify the most relevant publications, videos, data, events, initiatives and stakeholders in those areas.
Related reports
Read our reports on the range of issues we’re seeking to address