Interesting information about Alberta's bio sector

Did you know...

...plastic can be made from oilseeds? Researchers at the University of Alberta are turning canola and flax oil into environmentally friendly plastic products.

...a wafer that tastes like a graham cracker can detect diabetes? Developed by Alberta biotech company Ceapro Inc., the wafers provide an accurate, sensitive and consistent way to help identify the onset of adult diabetes.

...manure is being turned into usable energy in Alberta? A new pilot plant at an Alberta feedlot is transforming manure into renewable energy and fertilizers, while reducing greenhouse gases.

...that plastics, lubricants, cosmetics and fuels can all be made from canola seeds? Dr. Randy Weselake at the Phytola Alberta Innovates Centre is helping the province's value-added agriculture industry grow through research that uses canola as the basis for edible and industrial products.

...in Alberta, more than 51 million acres or 20 million hectares are used for crop and livestock production.

...Alberta is home to over 130 bio-industry companies, employing more than 4,500 workers. Revenues for this growing sector is estimated to be $800 million annually.