The Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition (SOIC) is looking to expand production of medical grade isotopes in the region.
Jessica Linthorne, President and CEO of the Nuclear Innovation Institute, says the partners in the coalition, which includes the Gamzook’aamin Aakoziwin Partnership with the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON), Bruce Power and medical partners, want to increase the supply for the highly critical isotopes, and she says this area is uniquely positioned to do that.
"With existing infrastructure, a skilled workforce and strategic partnership, we'll be able to continue to lead the production, research and treatment. So this means more high-paying jobs, economic growth and better access to care for patients," Linthorne shared.
The isotopes are extremely valuable because of the medical benefits that they offer, which is why the coalition is working on a roadmap to expand production over the coming years.
"Medical isotopes are used in sterilization of medical equipment but also for diagnosing and treating, through radiotheranostics, treating cancers. So it truly is a life-saving production, happening right here in Bruce County, and it's something we should all be very proud of," added Linthorne.
With the medical isotope industry rapidly growing, the coalition wants to take advantage of this region's unique opportunity within the space.
"We're looking at how we build an ecosystem here, leveraging the production of medical isotopes that is happening at Bruce Power, and really building on the success of the Gamzook’aamin Aakoziwin Partnership with the Saugeen Ojibway Nation to ensure that increased production of medical isotopes continues, and really can be a meaningful economic opportunity for the SON and its people," Linthorne said. "From the coalition's perspective, we really have an opportunity to build on the success of that Gamzook’aamin Aakoziwin Partnership."
Linthorne notes that says Bruce Power, which has been producing the Cobalt-60 isotopes for over 30 years, expanded production in 2022 to include Lutetium-177, which fights prostate cancer.
"So through the Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition, we really see an opportunity to build upon that production and really build this ecosystem together, looking at longevity with economic development and opportunities for our region," Linthorne concluded.
The SOIC recently launched a review of how the area can accelerate isotope production, called "Unlocking our isotope advantage: review of regional opportunities."
That review involved 28 partners, representing roughly 85 per cent of the SOIC's membership. According to a media release from the SOIC, the review included "facilitated discussions to rank national barriers to growth, share real-world challenges, and propose actionable solutions."
Following that review, the SOIC locked in on "12 recommendations and core action items to be implemented by the Coalition and its partners," according to the media release.
Highlights include:
Building on the success of the Gamzook’aamin Aakoziwin Partnership with the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) to ensure that increased production of medical isotopes in the region generates meaningful and lasting economic opportunities for SON and its people.
Expanding localized access to core infrastructure like hot cells, shielded isolators and other supportive infrastructure/providers.
Aligning skills development with industry needs through stronger collaboration.
Proposing a joint feasibility study on expanding isotope technology in rural Ontario.
"As this review of regional opportunities demonstrates, partnerships like Gamzook’aamin Aakoziwin, which means 'We are teaming up to fight the sickness,' can create long-term impact—not only for the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, but for people around the world," said Theron Solomon, Councillor, Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation.
"Unlocking our region’s strengths in isotope production is about advancing global health while also driving economic growth right here in our region. By attracting investment and innovation in this field, we’re helping create high-quality jobs, support local businesses and secure a more prosperous future for our communities," added Ian Boddy, Mayor, City of Owen Sound
"Southwestern Ontario has the talent, partnerships and momentum to shape the future of medical isotopes. With global demand accelerating, our rural region is positioned to deliver real benefits to patients in Canada and far beyond," said James Scongack, Chair, Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council and Chief Operating Officer and Executive VP, Bruce Power.