In the years to come, synthetic organisms will start producing materials that function as both product and packaging. Synthetic biology is already creating fuels and chemicals that serve existing industrial supply chains.

Envision a product that is ‘fixed’ by light: exposure to a specific wavelength causes the organism to morph into a rigid, waterproof material. During shipping and storage, these light-molded cups remain alive but dormant. With exposure to water, the organism hydrates and begins expressing pathways that produce fragrance and flavor compounds, creating an effervescent and probiotic drink. After several uses, the cup walls begin to degrade and the container can be composted.