Ben Lamm, CEO of Colossal Biosciences and a technology entrepreneur, passionately discusses his groundbreaking work in de-extinction. He shares insights on reviving the woolly mammoth and other species, fleshing out the challenges and scientific innovations involved. The conversation dives into the role of AI in genetic engineering, the significance of artificial womb technology, and the potential environmental and economic benefits of reintroducing extinct species into their habitats. Lamm also addresses misconceptions related to these ambitious efforts.
Colossal Biosciences utilizes advanced genomic techniques to de-extinct species like the woolly mammoth, focusing on ecological revitalization and biodiversity enhancement.
The company's approach emphasizes collaboration with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that rewilding efforts respect cultural narratives and land rights.
Deep dives
De-Extinction Vision and Biodiversity Crisis
Colossal Biosciences aims to tackle the alarming biodiversity crisis by focusing on de-extinction projects. The company is particularly concerned about projections indicating a potential loss of up to 50% of biodiversity by 2050, necessitating innovative approaches to species preservation. Co-founders Ben Lamb and George Church are inspired by their vision of revitalizing ecosystems through the reintroduction of extinct species like the woolly mammoth, Tasmanian tiger, and dodo, seeing this as a way to enhance biodiversity. They also hope to leverage related technologies for advancements in human healthcare, creating a dual benefit from their work.
Scientific Approach vs. Jurassic Park
The methodologies employed by Colossal differ significantly from the fictional narrative illustrated in Jurassic Park. Instead of reconstructing ancient DNA from poorly preserved samples, the company uses advanced genomic techniques to identify and insert specific genetic traits from the closest living relatives of the extinct species, such as the Asian elephant for mammoths. This approach, termed 'reverse Jurassic Park,' focuses on understanding and utilizing the actual genetic makeup required to revive these species, thereby enabling a more accurate reintroduction into the wild. This contrasts sharply with the fictional escapades involving dinosaurs, presenting a grounded strategy for achieving their ambitious goals.
Community Engagement and Ecosystem Integration
Reintroducing extinct species is not merely a scientific challenge; it also involves extensive collaboration with local communities and stakeholders. Colossal seeks input from indigenous groups, private landowners, and conservationists, recognizing the importance of inclusive dialogue when planning rewilding efforts. For instance, due consideration is given to cultural narratives, such as the significance of the thylacine to Aboriginal peoples, ensuring that rewilding efforts respect existing traditions and land rights. This comprehensive approach aims to foster local support and understanding while enhancing ecological integrity within environments previously inhabited by these species.
Future Potential and Profitability of De-Extinction
The monetization potential for Colossal's ventures is substantial, as the company explores various avenues for profitability. Beyond the direct benefits of reviving species, there are significant opportunities in educational initiatives and biodiversity credits, driven by growing environmental awareness. With global markets for nature-based solutions expanding, rewilding initiatives could emerge as valuable assets often compared to carbon credits. As the company continues to engage with governments and communities about biodiversity crises, it anticipates establishing a framework for long-term financial sustainability while contributing positively to global conservation efforts.
Sam Harris speaks with Ben Lamm about his work at Colossal Biosciences. They discuss his efforts to de-extinct the woolly mammoth, the Tasmanian tiger, and the dodo; the difference between Colossal’s approach and Jurassic Park; the details of resurrecting the mammoth; the relevance of this work to human health; the role of artificial intelligence; reintroducing mammoths, Tasmanian tigers, and dodos back into the wild; the environmental and business case for de-extinction; and other topics.
Ben Lamm is a technology and software entrepreneur. He is the CEO of Colossal Biosciences, which he co-founded alongside biologist George Church with the goal of resurrecting extinct species. Ben is also a fellow of The Explorer’s Club, and he serves on the scientific advisory board of The Planetary Society.
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