Scientists genetically engineer fly species to eat more of humanity's waste
Australian scientists are genetically engineering black soldier flies to enhance organic waste consumption, reduce methane emissions, and produce valuable byproducts, with plans for commercialization through a spin-off company, EntoZyme.
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A team of Australian scientists at Macquarie University is genetically engineering black soldier flies to enhance their ability to consume organic waste, aiming to mitigate methane emissions from landfills. The modified flies could potentially process a wider variety of waste while producing valuable byproducts such as fatty compounds and enzymes for biofuels, lubricants, and animal feed. The initiative is part of a broader effort to create circular economies that transform waste into reusable resources. The researchers have established a spin-off company, EntoZyme, to commercialize their findings, with plans to deploy the genetically engineered flies in waste facilities by the end of the year. Concerns about environmental risks are addressed by engineering the flies to have specific weaknesses, such as an inability to fly, ensuring they remain contained within processing sites. The research also explores the potential for these flies to break down pollutants, leaving behind clean organic waste suitable for use as fertilizer. The findings are detailed in the journal Communications Biology.
- Australian scientists are genetically modifying black soldier flies to improve waste consumption.
- The project aims to reduce methane emissions from organic waste decomposition.
- The modified flies could produce valuable byproducts for various industries.
- A spin-off company, EntoZyme, has been created to commercialize the research.
- The flies are engineered to minimize environmental risks by limiting their mobility.
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