In a recent episode of the UNLOCK Podcast, host Sergio Pernas welcomed Katarzyna Kowalska from Unimos to discuss the groundbreaking European Union-funded UNLOCK project. This initiative aims to convert chicken feathers into bio-based plastics, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. The conversation delved into the project's objectives, the role of Unimos, and the broader implications for society and the economy.

Introduction to Unimos

Katarzyna Kowalska began by introducing Unimos, an organization dedicated to building strategic alliances and partnerships across business, science, administration, and clusters. Unimos focuses on fostering growth, innovation, and international expansion by creating synergies between complementary industries. Their portfolio includes various EU-funded projects related to digitalization, bioeconomy, and short food supply chains.

Unimos' Role in the UNLOCK Project

In the context of the UNLOCK project, Unimos plays a crucial role in project clustering, dissemination, communication, and stakeholder engagement. They are responsible for building synergies across sectors, industries, and countries, as well as overseeing the development of a feather-based bioeconomy cluster and pan-European dissemination efforts.

The Importance of Clusters

Kowalska emphasized the significance of clusters in projects like UNLOCK. Clusters enable and multiply opportunities for collaboration by engaging partners from business, science, policy-making, and civil society. In the UNLOCK project, the clustering approach has been instrumental in amplifying opportunities for treating feathers and developing new agricultural products. This dynamic and holistic approach has allowed the project to operate at both regional and pan-European levels simultaneously.

Beyond the UNLOCK Project

As the UNLOCK project nears its conclusion, Kowalska discussed the potential for continued impact. Unimos is working to bridge the gap between the project's end and future activities by joining the Pan-European Community of Practice, which focuses on circular economy ingredients. This platform will help disseminate UNLOCK results and create opportunities for further innovation and collaboration.

Additionally, Unimos has been conducting pilot participative workshops to engage young leaders, entrepreneurs, and potential innovators. These workshops use UNLOCK samples as inspiration for business development, and Unimos aims to replicate these activities in other regions and for PhD students. Securing funding for ongoing research and development is also a priority.

Achieving Pan-European Impact

Kowalska is confident that the UNLOCK project can achieve a pan-European impact. The project's partners come from various regions and countries, and the clustering approach has enabled the configuration of resources to maximize impact. By leveraging the legacy created over the past four years, the project can continue to contribute to sustainable and bio-based transitions across Europe.

Engaging Quadruple Helix Agents

The UNLOCK project has engaged all quadruple helix agents—business, science, policy-making, and civil society. For policymakers, the project serves as an example of sustainable circular and bio-based transitions. For society, it provides a tangible experience of bioeconomy in practice. For researchers and businesses, it offers new areas for collaboration and market opportunities.

Conclusion

The UNLOCK project, with its innovative approach to converting chicken feathers into bio-based plastics, has the potential to make a significant impact on sustainability and the economy. Unimos' efforts in clustering, dissemination, and stakeholder engagement have been essential to the project's success. As the project moves beyond this phase, the continued collaboration and exploration of new opportunities will be crucial in realizing its full potential.