Governing New Biotechnologies for Biodiversity Conservation: GeneDrives, International Law, and Emerging Politics

JesseL. Reynolds

Global Environmental Politics, 2020, vol. 20, issue 3, 28-48

Abstract: The outdoor use of organisms modified with gene drives—emergingbiotechnologies of biased inheritance—could further human well-being andbiodiversity conservation, yet also poses environmental risks and diverse socialchallenges. This article describes and analyzes the international law andpolitics of gene drives’ research, development, and possible use, with anemphasis on their potential biodiversity applications. The Convention onBiological Diversity is central, and its institutions and others have takenactions toward governing gene drive organisms. Gene drives’ governanceand politics are contrasted with those of agricultural genetically modifiedorganisms, with emphases on states, nonstate actors, the precautionary approach,and decision-making forums. Developing and implementinggovernance—especially in international forums—for gene drives mayprove to be difficult. The observations and analysis here indicate that thepolitics of gene drive organisms is a manifestation of a larger struggleregarding emerging technologies among those concerned about sustainability.

Date: 2020
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