Biotechnology

Biotechnology can be as simple as developing plant hybrids and as complex as genetic engineering. A combination of “biology” and “technology,” biotechnology uses living systems and organisms to create or modify products or processes. Commonly understood examples include the development of plant-based medicines and the selective breeding of plants or animals for specific traits. Less understood types of biotechnology include genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and mapping genomes. Biotechnology is used to treat waste, create biodegradable plastics, produce biofuel, develop pharmaceutical products, and more.