Rachel Wynberg

Designation: SARChI Research Chair
Expertise: focused on environmental and social dimensions of the Bio-economy

Biography:

Rachel Wynberg holds a DST/NRF SARChI Chair on the Bio-economy and is based in the Department of Environmental and Geographical Science at the University of Cape Town. Trained in marine biology, environmental policy and the social sciences, her recent research focuses on the governance of natural resources and social justice; bioprospecting, access and benefit sharing; the use and trade of biodiversity; and the implications of new genetic technologies. She has a growing research focus on agroecology and alternative agricultural futures. Her primary interest is to bridge the gap between theory and the real world of environmental, inequality and poverty challenges.

Over the past twenty years she has advised governments, civil society organisations, industry and international agencies on biodiversity issues and continues to be actively involved with NGOs in southern Africa, also serving on several national and international advisory panels. Publications include over 140 scientific papers, technical reports and popular articles, and five co-edited books and monographs.

Climate Change & Development Link:

Rachel's work through the Seed and Knowledge project (SKI) has particular relevance for the climate change agenda. In partnership with NGOs, SKI’s vision is a future where small-holder farmers in southern Africa are empowered to secure seed and food sovereignty on all levels. The programme includes work on the ground with farmers, network building, advocacy and research. Post-graduate research focuses on the resilience of local seed systems; links between seed and food security; impacts of genetically modified crops and modernization on small farmers; and the
socio-ecological relationships within different systems of maize agri/culture.

For further information see: www.bio-economy.org.za

Contact:

Tel: +27 (0)21 650 2865
Email: rachel@iafrica.com