In Dallas, Texas, the Colossal company is coming up with strange, life-changing ideas. Colossal is pushing boundaries in gene editing, especially with CRISPR technology. They claim their work could truly help save endangered species by applying similar genetic rescue techniques. They also do things like reintroduce species, such as the extinct wooly mammoth. Reintroducing species like the mammoth could, in theory, help restore ecosystems like the Arctic tundra. Although there are many good aspects, there are also many concerns about this company.
There are many environmental risks that are inherent with the company’s operation. While scientists can make estimates through research, the true impact of reintroduced species in ecosystems is largely unpredictable. The new species could disrupt the current existing balance of the ecosystem. It is also questionable to be spending money on creating and bringing back extinct animals when many animals alive today are endangered and need help before their species dies out. At LJHS, many students, including freshman Maddy Williams, agree that we should not be spending our money on extinct animals when there are endangered ones who need our help and support. “I think it would not be smart to bring back extinct animals when we don’t know if they could be dangerous to the animals and environment we have today. It could really change a lot for our lives and put the other animals that have a positive effect on our environment in danger. I don’t think the Colossal company’s idea is good.”