Synthetic biology, an extreme form of genetic engineering, is developing rapidly with little oversight or regulation despite carrying vast uncertainty. Standard forms of risk assessment and cost-benefit analyses relied on by current biotechnology regulatory approaches are inadequate to guarantee protection of the public and the environment.

Developers and manufacturers must be responsible for the safety and effectiveness of their processes and products and must retain liability for any adverse impacts. Throughout, research and regulation shall be transparent and provide public access to all information regarding decision-making processes, safety testing and products.