New Technologies and Risk

The development of new technologies often comes with both benefits and risks.
It is essential to have an understanding of these benefits and risks to make informed decisions about the use of new technologies.
An example of such a technology is genetically modified (GM) organisms.

GM organisms have had specific changes made to their DNA using genetic engineering techniques.
These modifications can result in improved species, resistant to diseases, tolerant to harsh conditions or producing higher yields.
However, there are potential risks - it is possible for genes to ‘escape’ from GM organisms into the wild, which could negatively affect ecosystems.

It is crucial to evaluate the risks and benefits before implementing new technologies.
This involves researching and considering potential positive outcomes, such as improved crop yield, alongside possible negative impacts, like disruption to ecosystems.

Risk management is fundamental in the use of any new technology.
This involves identifying potential risks, implementing procedures to minimise those risks, and monitoring outcomes to ensure risks are kept as low as possible.
For example, in the case of GM crops, strict regulations can be put in place to prevent genetic escape.

There are often ethical considerations when evaluating the implications of new technologies.
These might involve weighing the potential human benefit of a technology against any potential harm or risk to animals or the environment.
Public perception and attitudes towards the risk also play an integral role and it’s important that the public is informed and able to voice their opinions.

Policymakers draw on the scientific consensus - the collective judgement of many scientists in a particular field - to inform their decisions about the implementation of new technologies.
However, scientific knowledge is continually evolving and assumptions and decisions need to be constantly reassessed.
It’s crucial to maintain an open dialogue between scientists, policymakers and the public where new information can be disseminated and evaluated.