Towards a positive change through biobased materials 

The first part of this open talk presents biobased material education and research from Aalto University Bioinnovation Center and CHEMARTS from Finland. Bioinnovation Center and CHEMARTS are united in the pursuit of a more sustainable and creative material future using materials sourced from renewable resources, waste streams, and by-products. We'll emphasize the role of interdisciplinary collaboration between students and researchers from design and science fields, showcasing tangible examples of successful projects and partnerships.

In the second part, we'll shift our focus to the Marvelous Materials book and its associated outreach program that spreads material knowledge to children, youth, and professionals. How can we teach material wisdom in an inspiring way? Marvelous Materials is a research inspired experiment book that contains 17 material recipes utilizing natural, recycled and bio-based materials. Through our outreach initiatives, we've successfully amplified the book's impact, fostering a deeper understanding and implementation of sustainable practices across diverse audiences. 

Speakers:

Greta Isola  

Greta Isola is an artist and art educator specialized in interdisciplinary collaboration and creative experimentation. She graduated from Aalto University with a Master of Arts degree in 2019. Isola is working at Aalto University Bioinnovation Center as a project coordinator for the impact program and is one of the authors of the Marvelous Materials –book. Greta explores the possibilities of different materials in art and education. She has been working within interdisciplinary education and community art for the past ten years. 

Susanna Ahola 

Dr. Susanna Ahola holds a Doctor of Science degree from Helsinki University of Technology in Forest Products Chemistry, with a specialization in innovative cellulose-based materials. Her recent endeavors have centered on coordinating interdisciplinary research and advancing doctoral education, with the goal of pioneering novel bio-based material innovations. She is also committed to inspiring and educating the next generation, demonstrated through her co-authorship of the "Marvelous Materials" experiment book. She combines her expertise with a passion for fostering creativity and curiosity in young minds, striving to shape a sustainable future through interdisciplinary discovery. 

About the organizations: 

CHEMARTS  is a collaboration between Aalto University's School of Chemical Engineering and School of Arts, Design and Architecture. Its main aim is to inspire students and researchers to work together using bio-based materials and to develop new, sustainable ideas for their use. CHEMARTS values the responsible use of natural resources, hands-on experimentation, and the blending of design and materials research to foster creative solutions. 

Aalto University Bioinnovation Center focuses on interdisciplinary research to promote the shift towards a circular economy and bioeconomy. It addresses challenges from technology, design, and business angles to create opportunities for sustainable growth in Finland. By bringing different fields together, the center works on practical solutions that support more sustainable practices and economic stability.