Creative Canadian Science: National Biotechnology Week Overview

National Biotechnology Week drew to a close with a record number of engagement opportunities across the country. The events were created by our regional accord partners and raised awareness for the industry, highlighting the passion and power of biotechnology players across the country. The companies were proud to present their work and show the promise of today’s Canadian bio-economy.

Canadian biotechnology companies are developing sustainable bioenergy technologies to power cars and jet aircrafts. Renewable composite materials are now an essential component of virtually every aspect of our lives, from transportation to housing to manufacturing. Clean chemicals are produced for a host of other consumer and commercial products. Many sectors are reinventing themselves and preparing to compete globally in the very promising bio-economy.

With thousands of participants each year, National Biotechnology Week is an opportunity to collaborate and showcase the impact our industry has on the daily lives of Canadians.

BIOTECanada Advocacy Day saw industry leaders from agriculture, health and industrial sectors join Members of Parliament to discuss the strategy for continuing to build the sector in Canada. Together we are advancing science-based public policy and increasing awareness of biotechnology.

Canada’s biotechnology industry is now an essential component of the transformation and redefinition of many traditional economic cornerstones, including forestry, energy, aerospace and other manufacturing industries. In partnership with these sectors, the biotechnology industry has helped position the Canadian economy as a leader in the emerging global bio-economy. There is now a bio-based component in virtually all sectors of the economy in the form of improved products and processes.

Here are some of the highlights from
National Biotechnology Week:

Lab Coats Meet Pinstripe Suits

Biotechnology industry leaders were front and centre on Bay Street for the official opening of the Canadian Toronto Stock Exchange markets. The opportunity to “ring the bell” at this signature event on the trading floor of the TSX showcased how the business of biotechnology is contributing to the global economy and to money markets.

Secrets of Creative Canadian Science

In partnership with BioNova as part of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce’s Distinguished Speakers Series, the Honourable David Wilson, Minister of Health and Wellness, declared the Week via provincial proclamation, which recognizes achievements by the government. Dr. Robert Heft, former President of Enobia Pharma Inc., passionately shared the story of his discovery and development of an innovative treatment for a rare and very severe disease. This was a behind-the-scenes look at how Enobia secured the largest-ever sale of a private, pre-commercial biopharmaceutical company working on a rare disease.

Helix on the Hill

In Ottawa, politicians, government officials and industry leaders showcased a sustained commitment to partnership and dialogue. Attendees agreed that capitalizing on the potential of our scientific achievements requires the collaboration of many. Together we are building a national strategy to grow Canada’s bio-economy.

Lab at the Legislature

The Life Science Association of Manitoba, along with BIOTECanada, welcomed elected officials as Let’s Talk Science students highlighted their expertise with hands-on science experiments in the Manitoba legislature. This allowed for great interaction among elected officials and students who are shaping Canada’s biotech future in their own backyards.

Pioneered Powered Flight

Business and government leaders gathered at the National Research Council of Canada’s biofuel flight test facility to applaud the aviation biofuel initiative. A major step towards advancing sustainable sources of renewable energy, bio jet fuel could help grow new Canadian markets and support rural economies for Canadian farmers. Agrisoma Biosciences already has more than 40 farmers in western Canada on contract to grow over 6,000 acres of the mustard oilseed crop, which will be used in the first-ever flight powered by pure renewable fuel. The crop is expected to create thousands of jobs and won’t take up any space used to grow food, since it can be grown on plots that usually lie fallow every third year. Refineries will also be built in Canada, which will provide huge growth in GDP.

Contact Nadine Lunt for more information.