Gene Editing For De-Extinction: Legal, Ethical And Environmental Challenges Of Crispr-Based Resurrection Biology
- IJLLR Journal
- May 26
- 2 min read
Abinaya R M, LL.M. (Natural Resources Law), Tamil Nadu National Law University, Tiruchirappalli
ABSTRACT
The rapid loss of biodiversity and advancement in the genome engineering technologies especially the innovation of CRISP Cas9 has made de- extinction from being a scientific fiction to reality. The concept of de- extinction not only aims at recreating the extinct species, rather, the very purpose is to restore the ecological functions. This article explores the legal, environmental and ethical dimensions of de-extinction under the context of conservation, and also the patentability of the species.
De-extinction does not stop with recreating a particular species, rather, the ultimate goal is to release it in the wild. The environmental release could be a serious concern, when the change in the ecosystem and the adaptability of the existing ecosystem is concerned. It cannot be always said that the circumstances which existed while the organisms were alive currently exists. It also has the potential to alter the existing food webs, bring in invasive species, etc. Secondly, when it comes to legal issues, though there are frameworks for species protection, it is utmost imperative to classify them first before trying to fit it in under different heads. Whether a particular species has to be considered as the same that has become extinct or should it be considered a totally new species is another concern. Ethically, de- extinction raises concerns about altering natural processes, diverting attention from conservation efforts, etc.
This paper concludes that, while de-extinction open avenues for ecological restoration, it should be integrated with the traditional conservation strategies and should not be considered as a standalone solution. A precautionary approach is recommended while backed up by strong legal frameworks to ensure responsible de-extinction.
