Restoring Earth’s natural balance

Our planet’s biodiversity is under threat. Thousands of species are in danger of extinction which will lead to imbalances in our highly sensitive ecosystems. This is a big deal. A balanced ecosystem is essential for fertile soil, clean water and food production, but also for the ability of forests and oceans to absorb CO2. Most of us now know that the possible extinction of the bee, for example, would have dramatic consequences. But what if it is already too late? What if the bee can’t be saved anymore? What if the changes that are already taking place cannot be undone?

In the future, it may me possible to create new hybrid life using genetic engineering, possibly in combination with (soft) robotics. We could mix the genetic code of plants, animals, fungi, insects and even humans as modular building blocks to create entirely new hybrid species packed with desirable and programmable characteristics. Can we use this as an opportunity to reserve biodiversity loss and ultimately restore Earth’s natural balance?