Australian scientists genetically engineer common fly species to eat more of humanity’s waste
GuardianJUL 15 2024
A team of scientists from Australia's Macquarie University in Sydney is genetically modifying black soldier flies to increase their consumption of humanity's organic waste.
In a paper published Wednesday in Communications Biology, scientists said black soldier flies could curb the planet-warming methane emitted into the atmosphere when organic waste breaks down.
Black soldier flies aren't pests, don't bite, or carry diseases. Their larvae can be pet food, digest all kinds of human waste, and even be processed into plastic.
Genetically modified flies are revolutionizing waste management. This innovative approach supports food security and promotes a circular economy, minimizing landfill dependence and environmental impact. It's also a sustainable solution for water-scarce regions.
While it's attractive for its potential to convert food waste into protein, black soldier fly modification risks reinforcing industrial animal agriculture. This is both exploitative and environmentally harmful, and it could divert resources from more comprehensive food system reforms.