The world is facing major challenges: climate protection, digital transformation and the transition towards a circular economy call for new ideas and innovative solutions. This is exactly where the IBW Centre for Green Engineering comes in. As a joint initiative of Salzburg University of Applied Sciences (Department of Design and Green Engineering) and iSPACE plus GmbH, the centre combines technological expertise with spatial intelligence to pool know-how within the federal state of Salzburg. Its goal is to develop sustainable solutions for the circular economy and bioeconomy while strengthening regional resilience.
Rethinking Resources, Designing Circular Processes, Developing Sustainable Products
Through applied research on biogenic raw materials, digital indicators and data‑driven tools, the centre lays the foundation for durable, recyclable materials and resilient (settlement) structures in the Salzburg region. By combining technical expertise - such as materials research, value chains and material flows - with spatial intelligence, including geoinformation, data analysis, simulation and visualisation, the centre bundles and advances engineering and technological know‑how in line with the principles of Smart Specialisation.
Objectives of the Research Centre
The aim is to develop intelligent uses of raw and residual materials based on biogenic resources—plant‑based and organic materials that are often still considered waste—using biorefinery approaches. Geoinformatics is used to create models and simulations that show which raw and residual materials are available, where, at what time and in what quantities, and how they can be used efficiently.
Regional material flows are analysed and potentials identified. Spatial and temporal data make it possible to capture variability in resource availability and to illustrate key factors relevant to the planning of biorefineries and circular economy processes. Based on this, innovative solutions are developed to promote circular processes.
Research Focus Areas at the IBW Centre for Green Engineering
- New uses for raw and residual materials through biorefinery approaches based on biogenic resources – ranging from sustainable packaging and adhesives to innovative insulation materials
- Materials development for durable, recyclable products with multiple usage cycles
- Digital indicators for analysing climate‑neutral economies and resilient settlement development
- Optimisation of strategic raw materials to reduce supply chain dependencies
- Development of a resource radar and a commercial land radar for Salzburg and surrounding region
The centre seeks to intensify dialogue between stakeholders and academia, particularly in the field of Green Engineering. Its goal is to pool existing economic and scientific potential in the state of Salzburg, create synergies, optimise structures and establish long‑term cooperation. This is achieved through a multi‑stakeholder approach in which the centre acts as a network, inspiration platform and hub for exchange between public administration, policymakers, industry and society. In doing so, the centre consistently implements the measures of the Salzburg Science and Innovation Strategy (WISS 2030) and addresses the regional priority areas TECH4GREEN and ICT/DIGITAL.
Head of the IBW Centre for Green Engineering
Senior Researcher
Department Design and Green Engineering
| Location: | Campus Kuchl |
|---|---|
| Room: | Kuchl - 1.01 B |
| T: | +43-50-2211-2405 |
| E: | alina.meindl@fh-salzburg.ac.at |
Partners & Cooperation
Funding
- Funding programme: IBW / ERDF www.efre.gv.at
- Project duration: October 2025 – December 2028
- Eligible total costs: €2,710,991.75
- ERDF funding: €2,168,793.40
- Funding from the State of Salzburg: €542,198.35
About IBW/ERDF & JTF
The EU funding programme IBW/ERDF & JTF (Investment in Jobs and Growth / European Regional Development Fund / Just Transition Fund) supports innovation, research and sustainable growth across Europe’s regions. Its aim is to reduce economic disparities, strengthen competitiveness and promote the transition to a climate‑neutral economy. Funding is provided for projects that enhance productivity, sustainability and quality of life – particularly through research, technology and innovation.
More information: www.efre.gv.at
About WISS 2030
The Science and Innovation Strategy of the Province of Salzburg (WISS 2030) defines clear objectives to strategically expand research and innovation in the region. It focuses on smart specialisation in five thematic areas with strong future potential, thereby strengthening Salzburg’s competitiveness as a research and innovation hub. The five new transfer centres make an important contribution to the implementation of WISS 2030.
More information: www.salzburg.gv.at/themen/forschung/wiss-2030