Trust and optimism in scientific advancements are essential for their successful adoption and implementation.

Leaps by Bayer (our company’s impact investment arm) and BCG, together with leading market access agency Ipsos, recently published the How Society Feels About Breakthrough Science report, one of the largest surveys on global public sentiment towards four transformative technologies of our time, including new genomic techniques.

The report highlights a notable optimism about the potential of science and technology to improve human health, access to nutritious food, and solve environmental challenges.

It also emphasises how greater knowledge correlates to greater acceptance of new ideas, with high levels of positive opinions/optimism correlating with high levels of knowledge across all breakthrough topics in healthcare and agriculture.

However, sentiment about agricultural innovations is slightly lower compared to healthcare, with 56% of respondents holding a positive opinion of new genomic techniques.

Companies pursuing scientific innovation must acknowledge that they face a trust challenge, with only 40% of the report’s respondents feeling that companies pursuing scientific innovation are transparent on risks and opportunities.

Introducing OpenLabs 360°

One of the ways Bayer is addressing the need for transparency is through the OpenLabs 360° project. This virtual platform offers self-guided tours of our research and development sites, allowing the public to see our scientists in action and understand the rigorous safety assessments that underpin our innovations.

By providing an immersive and interactive experience, OpenLabs 360° aims to demystify the scientific process and build public trust in our work.

Farming impacts us all, which is why we believe anyone should be able to understand how our innovations work to empower farmers, improve crops, protect our environment and feed a growing global population.

That’s why Bayer also provides access to our full safety study reports for our innovations in crop science, so that anyone can explore the scientific rigor and exceeding safety standards that we apply to developing every product. 

The Benefits for the Biotech Community and the Public

Building trust and transparency in science and technology has far-reaching benefits for the biotech community and the public.

For biotech professionals, researchers, and industry leaders, increased public trust can lead to greater acceptance and support for innovative solutions. This, in turn, can drive investment and collaboration, fostering a thriving biotech ecosystem.

For the public, particularly in New Zealand, understanding and trusting scientific advancements can lead to more informed decisions about the adoption of new technologies. This is especially important in areas like agriculture, where innovations are supported by a robust, science-based regulatory framework and will play a crucial role in addressing food security and environmental sustainability.

As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation, it is essential to foster a culture of transparency and trust. By opening our doors to the public through initiatives like OpenLabs 360°, we are showcasing our scientific rigor and building a foundation of trust that is crucial for the acceptance and success of scientific breakthroughs.