The program agreement between the Autonomous Province of Bozen/Bolzano and Eco Research for the 2023/25 period was approved on 13 June 2023 by the Provincial Government. At the same time, the related funding agreement was signed, pursuant to the Provincial Research and Innovation Law (LP 14/2006).
“Eco Research’s 2023/25 research program is based on the principles of sustainability and the circular economy and is in line with the RIS3 strategy, the regional innovation strategy adopted by the Province”, explained President Arno Kompatscher in his dual role which also sees him as provincial councilor for Research and Innovation.
The research activities, technological skills, and scientific know-how of Eco Research are aligned with all four specific areas outlined in the RIS3 document of the Province. These capabilities will contribute to the achievement of the objectives outlined in the Province’s sustainability strategy and the High Climate Plan Adige 2040.
Specifically, the research program, developed in close collaboration with the Provincial Department of Innovation and Research, encompasses the implementation of the following studies:
- Implementation of multi-element and multi-isotopic analyses for traceability studies in the agro-food and forestry sectors, contributing to the RIS3 strategic area of “Food and Life Sciences” (agri-food sector), to enhance traceability and quality control in the sector;
- Multi-element and multi-isotope characterization of water cycles in glacier zones contributing to the area “Alpine Technologies” within the RIS3 strategic framework. This research focuses on risk management in Alpine regions, aiming to understand and monitor water resources in glacier zones.
- Enhancement of hydrothermal carbonization processes for the elimination of persistent anthropogenic pollutants. This research is carried out within the RIS3 strategic area of “Green Technologies.” The goal is to develop and optimize carbonization processes that can effectively remove pollutants and produce carbonization products suitable for agricultural applications for a sustainable utilization of resources and the promotion of environmentally friendly practices.
- Development of new methods for the safe disposal of lithium-ion batteries within the RIS3 strategic area “Automation and Digital” (automation and automotive sector);
- Detection and quantification of microplastics in the environment, developing innovative methods of analysis and using the most recent analytical techniques;
- Enhancement of the intercalibration platform for analyzing emissions developed for the Bolzano waste-to-energy plant by promoting specific training courses to disseminate best practices relating to plant management;
- Classroom activities that engage upper secondary school students. The focus is on studying air quality within closed environments and fostering the conception and design of new devices to enhance air exchange. This initiative incorporates the principles of Citizen Science, involving students in scientific research and encouraging their active participation in addressing environmental challenges.
Simultaneously with the research activities, Eco Research will carry out scientific communication and dissemination activities at various levels of civil society. This will include publishing articles in both specialized and popular journals, as well as organizing and/or participating in conferences and thematic seminars. Eco Research is also actively involved in activities that engage students in STEAM disciplines and contribute to the training of young scientists.
