Conference Presentation, Panel, Fireside Chat
Part 1: Evolution of Humanity & Part 2: Inspiring Couples
Milken InstituteRichard Ditizio, Suzy Amis Cameron, James Cameron, Juan Enriquez, Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Patrice Motsepe
- Humans may transition into Homo avalutus through deliberate control of evolution, potentially creating future generations significantly different from ancestors, with synthetic life forms potentially forming agreements with major corporations like ExxonMobil to produce carbon-neutral fuels commercially by 2025.
- Technologies for printing organs and skin are expected to expand to other organs and human modifications for increased athletic ability or oxygen absorption, while synthetic biology could enable vaccine production in one week rather than one year.
- Synthetic biology is projected to eventually replace most agricultural land currently used for oil or protein production, and Yamanaka's cellular reprogramming technology may allow humans to rebuild all body parts.
- Large-scale disruptions in organic products and humans are anticipated to mirror the digital revolution's scale, with memory downloading technologies potentially becoming a reality and the deliberate alteration of life forms viewed as the primary historical factor of the late 20th and 21st centuries.
- Africa's population is projected to grow from 1.3 billion to 2.7 billion by 2050, accounting for half of global growth, presenting a risk of a demographic curse without adequate education and investment, though the continent aims to position itself as a competitive investment destination.
- Foundation goals for poverty alleviation are expected to continue across generations, and issues regarding women's empowerment are anticipated to remain subjects of open discourse.
- It is predicted that as of three to four years ago, the majority of humanity began living in cities, and if global consumption matched developed country levels, four additional Earths would be required to sustain it.
- Civilizations are forecast to survive the next century only by shifting from animal agriculture to plant proteins, a transition described as inevitable that will drive rapid growth in the plant-based sector.
- Companies are expected to address availability barriers through expansion, while consumers, particularly Millennials, will demand transparency on food provenance including specific farm and field details.
- The "One Meal A Day" campaign is scheduled to launch on September 4th with cooperation across schools, retail, hospitality, and corporate sectors, followed by a book release on October 15, with the shift in consciousness toward plant-based nutrition expected to continue growing.