10am – 5pm Monday 17 February 2025
Gain insights into ongoing research on the use of sustainable materials across fashion, manufacturing, fabrication and construction.
This symposium will bring together academics, practitioners, and students to explore the innovative use of Paludi-fibre, a sustainable material derived from wetland vegetation, in bio-based building materials and their potential to shape sustainable futures.
Presentations by leading experts will include: the development of feather-free insulation fillers for fashion, advancements in bio-based materials, bio-genic construction, robotic manufacturing and biomaterial-based fabrication, and the impacts on the construction industry. Discussions will also address the broader implications of adopting sustainable materials, such as reducing carbon footprints and promoting biodiversity.
The event, delivered in partnership with the Broads Authority, aims to foster a collaborative environment where participants can exchange ideas. It seeks to inspire new approaches to sustainable building and encourage the adoption of bio-based materials in mainstream construction.
The exhibition running parallel, will feature student projects that experiment with practical applications of Paludi-fibre in contemporary architecture, highlighting the students’ creativity and technical skills. A tour of the exhibition in Boardman House will be available during the lunch break.
The event is free to attend but booking is required. Refreshments and lunch are provided.
William Hailiang Chen – Lecturer, Norwich University of the Arts
Georgemma Hunt – PhD researcher, Sustainable Research Institute, UEL
Richard S. Hurding – CEO, Zelfo Technology GmbH
Andrea Kelly – Environment Policy Adviser, Broads Authority
Monika Brandić Lipińska – PhD graduate, Hub for Biotechnology in the Built Environment, Newcastle University
Jingyuan (Yaoyao) Meng – Design Tutor and Robotics Technician, Bio-integrated Design, UCL
Guillem Perutxet Olesti – Robotics Technician, Bio-integrated Design, UCL
Neloufar (Nelly) Taheri – Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer, Ponda
Book your placeDuke Street Building houses the University Library, Lecture Theatre, seminar rooms and University shop. Undergraduate Open Day registrations are held here.