On Friday, November 29th, the CNR Research Area in Bologna hosted the event “Women, Materials, and Sustainability”, sponsored by the “Women and Science” association and Tetra Pak. Organized by Dr. M. Melucci (CNR-ISOF) and Dr. V. Pignedoli (Mister Smart Innovation), this event was moderated by Dr. S. Beccari, (European Climate Pact Ambassador). It was a significant opportunity to hear the work, life, and leadership experiences of women making a difference in research, industry, technology transfer, social development and culture.
Researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and artists shared the outcomes of innovative projects on materials, sustainability, and emerging technologies, highlighting their social impact. The synergy between research and business was presented as a concrete example of how a shared strategy and vision between public and private sectors can accelerate change toward a more sustainable future.
The event began with opening remarks from our colleague Mila D’Angelantonio (ISOF) of the “Women and Science” association, emphasizing how the research world should serve as a model for young and older generations. Dr. Lidia Armelao, Director of the Department of Chemical Sciences and Materials Technologies (CNR-DSCTM), emphasized how the event’s themes are central and cross-cutting to the department’s activities. Contributions from the research world included speeches by A. Sanson, Director of CNR-ISSMC, and C. Zanardi, a professor at Ca’ Foscari University in Venice and an associate at CNR-ISOF. Representatives from the business sector, including Letizia Bocchi (Medica SpA), Maria Cristina Gherpelli (Ghepi Srl), and Silvia Rossi (Tetra Pak), stressed that sustainable change must be fueled by collaboration between research and industry.
“Sustainability also encompasses human, social, and cultural dimensions: inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity. Gender equality is not only a goal of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda but is essential and transversal for achieving all 17 Sustainable Development Goals,” noted Dr. M. Melucci.
The meeting concluded with the evocative “Evocation” concert by maestro Beppe D’Onghia, accompanied by the enchanting illustrations of Serena Zaniboni.
This finale emphasized how emotion, humanity, and culture are the sustainable fuel driving the necessary metamorphosis for a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future.