Mid-term seminar with a focus on the Swedish wildberry value chain

So far, the thesis has focused on an investigation of the Swedish value chain for wild berries. Two studies have been carried out using the MLP and TIS frameworks respectively. Through a historical analysis, the first study found that processes of geographical, cultural and ecological disconnection can result in configurations that fail to address sustainability potential and problems.  

The second study found that the current wild berry innovation system is fragmented as a result of partly conflicting goals between actors in the innovation system and saw a need for broader governance networks to navigate trade-offs, enable the commercialization of new solutions and improve working conditions for migrant workers.  

The knowledge developed through the studies can be useful for actors engaged in innovation activities related to wild berries, as well as stakeholders to the food system and public authorities. In addition, the studies develop conceptual and analytical tools that contribute to the literature on agri-food innovation and sustainable transitions. 

Challenges ahead

“The studies so far have shed light on the complexity of the challenges facing the Swedish wild berry industry, as well identifying diverse pathways through which a future potential can be realised in ways that contributes towards sustainability,” says Paul Plummer. “Challenges remain to find strategies which provide long term benefits for actors across the value chain, but positive signs of collaboration in this area are already visible.” 

In the next half of the project, the research focus will shift to a case study of the emerging innovation system connected to experimental food production in Sweden, and its potential contribution to a sustainability transition in the food system 

 Paul Plummer, Phd student at Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, Industrial Engineering and Management, Uppsala University →