Disruptive Technologies in the Agri-food Sector: A Knowledge Synthesis

Abstract

The agri-food sector in Canada is entering an “age of disruption” where the rapid expansion of technology, like IoT, genetic advancements, and robotics, has potential to fundamentally reshape the futureof work and the development of rural communities across Canada. This presentation reports on the firstphase of a multi- phased project that assesses the impacts of disruptive technologies in the agri-food sector, including the scope of technologies that could disrupt traditional production practices and the future of work. An overview of the project and the findings from our initial research and knowledgesynthesis is presented along with the planned future phases and next steps. Using technology assessment,key informant interviews and comparative case studies, this research aims to identify disruptive technologies and companies, assess their social and spatial implications, and explore how regional stakeholders are responding to these impacts. This research aims to assist local and provincial policymakers in designing and assessing new policies and programs to respond to the impacts of disruptive technologies in the agri-food sector.