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The Social Implications of Agri-Genomics

Case Studies

This research project is conducting three case studies based in British Columbia, designed to be applicable and replicable across Canada. Exploring the potential risks that cellular agriculture and gene editing pose to marginalized communities and strategies to manage those risks.

Each case study team is working in collaboration with an industry partner and Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) consultant assessing the environmental impact comparisons for each case study.

We have selected foods and food technologies to explore in each case study, all stand to be significantly transformed by emerging agri-genomic innovations:

A piece of raw salmon held by metal chopsticks against a dark background.

Cellular Aquaculture

Cellular Aquaculture and the Stó:lō Foodways Co-Lab, will assess acceptance, concerns and pathways for engagement with Indigenous communities.

The industry partner for this case study is the Stó:lō Research and Resource Management Centre and YEX.

Young green seedlings growing under artificial lights.

Vertical Agriculture

Vertical Agriculture and Land, Labour, and Climate Implications, will assess crop selection & gene tech, public acceptance & effects on food access.

The industry partner for this case study is QuantoTech and i-Open Technologies.

Close-up of white mushrooms growing from a substrate against a blurred dark background.

Alternative Proteins

Just Transitions for Alternative Proteins, will access public acceptance, disruptions to livelihoods and potential for farmer engagement.

The industry partner for this case study is Maia Farms.