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Bioethics and Biosafety

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do you stay safe, and keep others safe, when working with microorganisms and chemicals in a biotechnology laboratory?

Describe the hazards in a biotechnology laboratory and the biosafety measures used to control them
A focused answer to the O-Level outcome on biosafety. The main laboratory hazards, biosafety levels, safe working practices, and the safe disposal of biological waste.
8 min answer →

Just because we can do something with biotechnology, does that mean we should?

Discuss the main ethical issues raised by biotechnology and how they can be weighed up
A focused answer to the O-Level outcome on bioethics. The main ethical issues raised by genetic engineering and biotechnology, and how to weigh benefits against concerns fairly.
9 min answer →

Who decides whether a new biotechnology product is safe to use, and why must people agree before their genes are tested?

Explain the role of regulation in biotechnology and the importance of informed consent
A focused answer to the O-Level outcome on regulation and consent. Why biotechnology is regulated, how products are approved, what informed consent means, and why it matters.
8 min answer →

Beyond the laboratory, how does biotechnology change society and the environment, for better and for worse?

Discuss the social and environmental impacts of biotechnology, including its benefits and risks
A focused answer to the O-Level outcome on the wider impacts of biotechnology. Social benefits and risks, environmental benefits and risks, and how to evaluate them in a balanced way.
8 min answer →