Online event: Building Sustainable Value Chains for Circular Composite Materials

How can natural fibres, bio-based additives and new manufacturing methods help regions move toward a more circular future?

This online event brings together experts, companies and researchers from across the Northern Periphery and Arctic region to explore practical opportunities for building sustainable value chains.

The programme opens with a short look at the BIO-2-PRINT project: what we are developing, why it matters, and what the work packages have uncovered so far. After this, we'll have an invited expert who will share insights on how sustainable materials, circular design and emerging technologies can support regional development.

The event continues with a panel discussion that examines how underutilised fibres, composite innovations and 3D-printing solutions can be connected into viable value chains, from fibre sourcing to end-use applications. The conversation brings together different viewpoints to highlight both opportunities and challenges for moving from ideas to practical implementation.

Join us to learn, exchange views and connect with people working toward a more circular and resource-smart NPA region.

Register here: Building Sustainable Value Chains for Circular Composite Materials online event

Programme: 

13:00 – 13:10: Welcome

Dr. Marko Forsell, Vice rector (R&D), Centria University of Applied Sciences, Finland

13:10 – 13:30: Project overview: Why this matters and key findings so far 

·        Overall project introduction: Centria University of Applied Sciences, Finland

·         Stakeholder engagement and network building: Munster Technological University, Ireland

·         Preparing underutilized fibres and polymer additive extraction: Umeå University, Sweden

·        Testing and preparation for pilot-scale 3D printing: Future Cast, Ireland and Luleå University of Technology, Sweden

13:30 – 13:50: “Bio-based materials and 3D printing for the future of sustainable manufacturing”

·        Speaker: Dr. Egidija Rainosalo, Materials and 3D printing expert Centria University of Applied Sciences, Finland

14:00 – 14:25: Panel discussion - Building Sustainable Value Chains for Circular Composite Materials

·        Panelists: Industry representatives, bio-composite & 3D printing experts, business support organisations, farmers & co-operatives

·        Discussion Focus: Opportunities, challenges, and collaboration for building circular composite value chains, from fibre sourcing to 3D-printing

 14:25 – 14:30: Event wrap-up

Dr. Rathish Rajan, Project Manager BIO-2-PRINT (Centria University of Applied Sciences, Finland)

The event is organised as part of the BIO-2-PRINT project, funded by the Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme.