---

Watch the Webinar

Bioecology’s Influence on Agriculture: A Path To Sustainability

---

What is the dynamic relationship between bioecology and agriculture? This hour-long session promises to offer insights into the transformative changes and policy shifts driving innovation through the lens of bioecology as we consider the future of sustainable agriculture.

The bioeconomy, characterized by its focus on renewable resources, bioenergy, and sustainable policies, stands as a cornerstone of evolving industrial landscapes. This discussion aims to unravel how the sector is redefining economic models through its eco-friendly approach. Central to this exploration is the bioecology perspective, emphasizing the intricate balance of ecological processes that optimize energy and nutrient utilization. Participants will gain an understanding of the significance of ecosystem services like pest control and pollination and their impact on agricultural productivity. The discussion aims to propose ‘win-win’ strategies that support sustainability while maintaining producer livelihoods.

How do different policy rationales contend in the transition towards the bioeconomy? Some policies emphasize directionality, aiming to steer industries towards renewable resources, reducing reliance on non-renewable inputs, and mitigating environmental impacts. Other, diversity-focused policies prioritize a range of bio-based sectors and applications, fostering innovation across multiple domains, from agriculture and energy to healthcare and materials science. What are some of the innovative policy approaches being introduced in Europe to unleash the transformative potentials of the bioeconomy? Who are the policy entrepreneurs in the bioeconomy? What is the role of regional ecosystems in these policy innovations?

Speakers:

• Paul Galpern, Associate Professor, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Calgary
• Markus M. Bugge, Associate Professor, Centre for Technology, Innovation and Culture, University of Oslo

Moderator:

• Brandy Yanchyk, Independent documentary filmmaker and journalist

There is no cost to register. The webinar will be hosted via Zoom. Please feel free to share this invitation with colleagues that may be interested.

The School of Public Policy and the Simpson Centre for Food and Agricultural Policy is pleased to host the Simpson Centre Public Education Series, sponsored by UFA and the RCF. 

The Simpson Centre mobilizes research for better policymaking and decision-making to realize a more sustainable agricultural industry. Strengthening the sustainability of agri-food and agribusiness means increasing food production to feed a growing global population, while attending to social and health impacts and the natural environment. We connect researchers, everyday people, industry stakeholders and government actors to scientific issues critical to the future of Canada’s agricultural and food system.

Contact us at sppcomm@ucalgary.ca with any questions.