Impact of Biotechnology on Sustainable Development: An Opinion Analysis

Alejandro Leiva, Asier Larrea-Sebal, Arantzazu Acha and Lidia Ruth Montes ()
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Alejandro Leiva: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
Asier Larrea-Sebal: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
Arantzazu Acha: UN Etxea, Asociación del País Vasco para la UNESCO, Isozaki Atea—Plaza de la Convivencia Paseo de Uribitarte 12, Local 2, 48001 Bilbao, Spain
Lidia Ruth Montes: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 22, 1-16

Abstract: Biotechnology is increasingly recognized as a key driver for achieving the United Nations 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, public awareness of its role remains uncertain. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, perceptions and opinions regarding the relationship between the SDGs and biotechnology among the general adult population in Spain. A validated online survey was distributed, yielding 274 responses. Although 84.3% of the respondents were familiar with the 2030 Agenda, positive perceptions of the SDGs were especially common among women and individuals with higher levels of education. Regarding biotechnology, 54.4% considered themselves knowledgeable, and nearly half (48.2%) recognized its potential contribution to health (SDG 3) and environmental sustainability, but its role in social and economic SDGs was less recognized. This study highlights the need for targeted educational and communication strategies to raise awareness and show how concrete biotechnological applications can contribute to sustainable development. Emphasizing these practical contributions can position biotechnology as a visible driver of progress and foster greater public engagement with science in achieving the 2030 Agenda.

Keywords: biotechnology; Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); public awareness (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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