Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

A department of the Government of Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada supports the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector through initiatives that promote innovation and competitiveness. The activities of the Department range from the farmer to the consumer, from the farm to global markets, through all phases of producing, processing and marketing of farm, food and bio-based products. Among the initiatives the Department oversees is the Living Laboratories Initiative. As a new approach to agricultural innovation in Canada, this initiative brings together farmers, scientists, and other collaborators to co-develop and test novel practices and technologies. Through a nation-wide network of living labs, the initiative focuses on innovative solutions to agri-environmental issues, such as climate change, soil health, water quality and biodiversity. The goal of the initiative is to accelerate the development and adoption of sustainable practices and technologies by Canadian farmers.

Role in ALL-Ready

As an international collaborator in the ALL-Ready project, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is sharing expertise based on the department’s experiences in implementing and operating its Living Laboratories Initiative. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is involved throughout the ALL-Ready project with a particular focus on helping identify the vision, scope, mission, and selection criteria for the proposed network of agroecology living labs and research infrastructures across Europe.

Key persons involved

• François Chrétien, Associate Director, Living Laboratories Division
• Chris McPhee, Innovation Management Specialist, Living Laboratories Division
• Brett van Heyningen, Communications Advisor, Public Affairs Branch