TED: Fashion has a pollution problem -- can biology fix it? | Natsai Audrey Chieza

The video explores the potential of using biological systems, like the bacteria Coelicolor, to revolutionize material design and address environmental challenges posed by fossil fuels. It highlights the role of synthetic biology and fermentation in creating sustainable material systems, particularly in the textile industry. The speaker discusses the need to scale these biological methods for industrial use and emphasizes the importance of collaborations in developing bio-based industries. The video concludes with a call to shape a sustainable material future.

What is the primary function of Streptomyces coelicolor in the soil?

• To produce synthetic chemicals

• To decompose organic matter

• To increase soil acidity

• To absorb heavy metals

Why is there a need to move away from fossil fuel-based material systems?

• They are too expensive to produce

• They are causing significant environmental harm

• They are no longer available

• They are not efficient enough

How does synthetic biology contribute to sustainable material development?

• By customizing the functionality of living systems

• By enhancing fossil fuel extraction

• By creating artificial intelligence systems

• By reducing the need for water in agriculture

What is a key benefit of using fermentation in material production?

• It creates a continuous cycle of energy redistribution

• It requires no energy input

• It eliminates the need for microorganisms

• It speeds up fossil fuel production

What is a major challenge in using bacteria for textile dyeing?

• Finding bacteria that produce pigments

• Ensuring the bacteria survive in all climates

• Guiding a living medium with its own life force

• Producing enough bacteria for a single garment

How does the dyeing process with Streptomyces coelicolor minimize environmental impact?

• By requiring large amounts of water

• By producing non-biodegradable waste

• By using petroleum-based chemicals

• By generating minimal runoff and using no chemicals

What is the role of a bioreactor in scaling biological processes?

• To engineer new types of bacteria

• To reduce the size of microorganisms

• To model growth characteristics at large volumes

• To eliminate the need for synthetic biology

What is MycoWorks' contribution to sustainable materials?

• Developing new fossil fuel extraction methods

• Creating mushroom leather as an alternative to animal leather

• Designing biodegradable plastics

• Producing synthetic leather from petroleum

What innovative approach has Bolt Threads taken in material production?

• Engineering yeast to produce spider-silk protein

• Creating synthetic dyes for fabrics

• Developing new fossil fuel-based textiles

• Using traditional weaving techniques

What is a critical consideration for the future of biotechnology in society?

• Ensuring it remains exclusive to developed countries

• Developing it without any regulations

• Building it to avoid the harmful legacies of the oil age

• Focusing solely on digital technologies