Towards the responsible development of microbiome engineering in the built environment

This Perspective calls for a transdisciplinary framework for the responsible advancement of Microbiome Engineering of the Built Environment (MEoBE). Acknowledging MEoBE's potential to improve public health, we highlight the need for early core practices and principles incorporating societal and ethical considerations. We propose integrating Responsible Research and Innovation (AIRR: anticipation, inclusion, responsiveness, reflexivity) with the National Academy of Medicine's Committee on Emerging Science, Technology, and Innovation (CESTI) principles. Although full integration requires further conceptual development, aligning these frameworks offers novel value. We argue that open dialogue and addressing risks with impacted communities will build public trust and ensure MEoBE benefits society. Ultimately, we support a responsible innovation approach that fosters ongoing engagement and adaptation while upholding core principles of justice, fairness, autonomy, and individual and collective good.