 Micro-organisms and pertinent microbial technologies have the potential to provide or contribute to the provision of basic resources and services that are lacking in many parts of the world. This could help to reduce sources of conflict by eliminating unnecessary deprivation and enabling healthier lives of all. Funding agencies, politicians and other relevant stakeholders should work together to weaponize these technologies to combat resource deficiencies and asymmetries, particularly among the most vulnerable populations. This article was authored by Shalee Annand, Johnny Halsworth, James Timmiss and others.