In March 2023, a cross-continental exchange took place when seven academics from Chile (El Maule, Concepción and Valdivia (UCM, UTalca, UDEC, UACh)) travelled to Finland. The exchange was possible thanks to the project funding granted by the Finnish National Agency for Education within the Team Finland Knowledge project ”Fostering green transition through mobility and effective communication between Finnish and Chilean HEIs,” aimed to deepen collaborative chances and explore mutual opportunities in the bioeconomy sector. The purpose of this experience was to improve cooperation opportunities and investigate mutual prospects in the bioeconomy sector including education and research.
The visit spanned from March 12 to 25, where the delegation made their way through North Karelia and Savonia regions, engaging in a series of enlightening meetings and visits. The main purpose was to devise exchange opportunities for students and staff, improve bioeconomy knowledge, and increase professional traineeship opportunities with participating companies.
The journey began at the University of Eastern Finland, where the delegation was introduced to postgraduate programs and visited cutting-edge laboratories, including the Process and Products Laboratory and the Spectroscopic Laboratory. Karelia University of Applied Sciences offered insights into their degree programs in forestry, international cooperation, and renewable energy projects. A highlight was the visit to Lighthouse, the tallest wooden apartment building in Joensuu of 13 stories, and meetings with key stakeholders in the region’s bioeconomy.
The academics’ exploration extended to Koli National Park, where they delved into the cultural and natural heritage of the North Karelia Region. This visit underscored the integration of sustainable practices within Finnish culture and the potential for bioeconomy to bolster environmental conservation.
The visit continued in Kuopio campus by the hand of Savonia University of Applied Sciences, showing multidisciplinary research activities and international projects. The delegation also toured the Kuopio Energia biomass plant and Stora Enso Varkaus Containerboard mill, witnessing firsthand the application of bioeconomy principles in production. The delegates participated also in the ”Agri-Food Cluster Goes International” workshop, the visit’s conclusion was marked by the joint commitment to continued exchange and mutual growth.
This experience culminated in a workshop held with the seven members of the collaboration, UCM, UDEC, UTalca, UACh from Chile and UEF, Karelia UAS, and Savonia UAS at Savonia premises. After reflecting on the visit participants identified several areas for collaboration, underlining the necessity of advancing a bioeconomy strategy in Chile.
Through this experience, Chilean and Finnish academics have laid the groundwork for future endeavors, promising a brighter, more sustainable future in the bioeconomy sector.
Written by:
Leonardo Coppini and Isabel Muñoz from University of Eastern Finland
