Abstract: Defined broadly as the manipulation of genetic material in living organisms or the derivatives thereof, biotechnology represents a veritable gold mine of possibilities for improving the human condition. Society tends to focus on the glamorous; the success of the Human Genome Project and its modern miracle of unraveling the composition of human deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). However, biotechnology is much more than genetics. It twines the developments in understanding the building blocks of life with their characteristics and uses in organic systems. In short, biotechnology is a multifaceted science that supports all manner of micro and macro interactions within the life sciences. This paper addresses three specific industries within the rubric of biotechnology - bio-fuels, agriculture, and medicine and offers broad policy recommendations designed to foster discussion and debate among senior leadership in order to leverage the applications of biotechnology for the good of the nation. In addition, the paper provides the reader with three essays that provide greater depth and breadth on significant current biotechnology issues. Continued development and implementation of governmental policies and funding that aggressively promote continued scientific discovery and breakthroughs in this diverse industry offer unprecedented opportunities to increase mankind's quality of life by reducing dependence on fossil fuels, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing production and distribution of food, improving resistance to disease, and developing personalized medicine. The question is not if this will occur, but when and how to ensure that it takes place in an ethical, reasonable manner that benefits America and the rest of the world.
| Limitations: |
 APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE |
| Description: |
Final rept. |
| Pages: |
41 |
| Report Date: |
01-Jan-2008 |
| Report Number: |
A245784 |
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