Navigating the Future of Biodesign: A Reflection on Waste Colonialism, Frugal Innovation, and Marginalized Traditions

This article critically explores the evolution of biodesign, emphasizing the necessity to not make historical mistakes in design by focusing on waste colonialism, frugal biodesign, and inclusive speculative approaches. It highlights the ethical challenges posed by waste colonialism, advocating for a sustainable reimagining of waste as a valuable resource rather than something to be offloaded onto less affluent nations. The discussion on frugal biodesign underscores the importance of leveraging local resources and traditions, exemplified by innovative uses of cow dung in Indonesia and India, to foster resilience and sustainability. Moreover, the paper stresses the significance of making biodesign accessible and democratized, critiquing the dominance of high-cost, industrialized methods. It calls for a care-oriented, inclusive ethos that values human agency and ethical considerations over capitalist interests. Conclusively, the paper posits that the future of biodesign must be rooted in a deep understanding of cultural contexts and a commitment to ethical practices, thereby ensuring an innovative, equitable, and respectful approach to biodesign.