Solving for Climate Ben Lamm: Would de-extincting species benefit the planet?
Jan 6, 2026
Join Ben Lamm, Co-founder and CEO of Colossal Biosciences, as he explores the daring world of de-extinction. He discusses the groundbreaking pipeline for bringing back species like woolly mammoths and dodos through gene editing. Lamm highlights three compelling climate arguments for this venture, including enhancing biodiversity and engaging the public. He also addresses ethical concerns and the practical challenges of creating these iconic creatures. Dive into a future where science and conservation intersect!
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How De-Extinction Works End-To-End
- Colossal sequences ancient DNA, compares it to Asian elephant DNA, and engineers edits to recreate mammoth traits.
- They plan to use cloning (somatic cell nuclear transfer) and eventual artificial wombs to produce live animals.
Beyond Hair: Engineering Cold Tolerance
- Colossal targets not just visible traits like hair but core cold‑tolerance genes affecting physiology.
- They aim to confer hemoglobin, nerve, and metabolic adaptations, not just a shaggy coat.
Keystone Species Can Modify Climate Locally
- Colossal argues reintroducing keystone megafauna could change ecosystem processes and locally cool ground temperatures.
- They cite analogue effects from elephants and models suggesting migratory cold‑tolerant herbivores might alter Arctic soils.