Building on a shared mission: EcoPlastiC at the TwInn4MicroUp workshop

The EcoPlastiC project was a key topic of discussion during the recent workshop organised by the TwInn4MicroUp project. This event brought together 12 selected participants from leading institutions, including the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering (IMGGE), University of Bari Aldo Moro (UNIBA) and Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest (TUS):

• Cristina Ferousi, Maria Tsevdou and George Taxeidis from NTUA

• Sanja Skaro Bogojevic, Jelena Milovanovic and Brana Pantelic from IMGGE

• Antonino Biundo, Claudia de Micco and Eugenia Messina from UNIBA

• Bor Shin Chee, Buket Alkan Tas and Cuneyt Erdinc Tas from TUS

For this particular workshop, focus was on a shared challenge that resonates with all participants: plastic pollution. Given the collective expertise in the field, they explored critical topics such as regulation, reduction, upcycling and revalorisation of plastics. The EcoPlastiC project was selected as the joint initiative to base their discussions on because it aligns perfectly with these areas and reflects the ongoing work of many workshop attendees. The EcoPlastiC project, which focuses on sustainable and eco-friendly solutions for plastic production and recycling, was presented and thoroughly discussed as part of the workshop’s agenda. The participants exchanged ideas on the project's objectives, which aim to reduce the environmental impact of plastics by promoting innovative materials and technologies.

The workshop was led by Dr Deasún Ó Conchúir, a highly experienced Project Management Consultant and Academic with decades of global experience. He has worked with major clients such as Airbus, Volvo, GE, Ericsson, Zurich Insurance, HP and numerous SMEs. As the author of "Overview of the PMBOK® Guide" and a former Head of School of Engineering at WIT, Dr Ó Conchúir provided invaluable insights into effective project management, using the EU's PM2 methodology as the guiding framework. His expertise ensured that participants walked away with practical tips and strategies to streamline their project coordination and focus more on their research.

Stay tuned for more updates on both the EcoPlastiC and TwInn4MicroUp projects as we continue to innovate and collaborate for a greener future!