[wanabidii] Press Releases: "Showcasing the Bioeconomy: The Future is Now" Biotechnology Conference

You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Press Releases: "Showcasing the Bioeconomy: The Future is Now" Biotechnology Conference 03/24/2014 04:40 PM EDT "Showcasing the Bioeconomy: The Future is Now" Biotechnology Conference Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 24, 2014 On Monday, March 24, the U.S. Department of State hosted the “Showcasing the Bioeconomy: The Future is Now” biotechnology conference attended by over 150 members of the diplomatic corps, researchers, and U.S. policy makers. The conference focused on innovations in three areas - agricultural, health, and industrial biotechnology - with speakers discussing opportunities for job growth and economic development presented by the global bioeconomy, the current policy climate, and regulatory trends. During opening remarks, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs William E. Craft underscored the importance of innovation and new technology as part of Secretary Kerry’s Shared Prosperity Agenda. White House Assistant Director of Biotechnology Mike Stebbins highlighted the White House’s National Bioeconomy Blueprint and its new developments in synthetic biology, proteomics, and bioinformatics. On agricultural biotechnology, speakers highlighted innovations which include the “no-browning apple” that reduces food waste, a glowing plant that helps communities living with little or no electricity resources, and genetically-engineered insects that reduce disease and crop damage. Researchers and innovators in the health bioeconomy discussed their discoveries in cancer detection and targeted approaches for developing countries. The participants described the importance of health innovation and the need for low-cost solutions to address current public health concerns. On industrial biotechnology, speakers highlighted new ways of mining minerals using genetically modified microbes, designing organisms on demand using synthetic biology, and the uses of 3D printing to create novel devices. Expert panels throughout the day examined overarching themes such as intellectual property, data management, education, and regulatory hurdles. During closing remarks, Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Kerri-Ann Jones highlighted ways the Department of State prioritizes science, innovation and entrepreneurship to solve problems and stimulate economic growth. The Office of Website Management, Bureau of Public Affairs, manages this site as a portal for information from the U.S. State Department. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. Stay connected with the State Department:   External links found in this content or on Department of State websites that go to other non-Department websites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein.  Update your subscriptions, modify your password or email address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your email address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please visit subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of State. This email was sent to wanabidii@googlegroups.com using GovDelivery, on behalf of: U.S. Department of State · 2201 C Street NW · Washington, DC 20520

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