Connecting the Wool Value Chain: Research, Industry and Action

This event will disseminate information from nationally funded wool research projects, as well as seeking stakeholder feedback This event, organised by MTU, UCC and TUS, is part of Bioeconomy Ireland Week and will bring together researchers, industry representatives, farmers, processors and other stakeholders to explore the future of the Irish wool sector and the opportunities to maximise the value of this underutilised natural resource. Information sessions on REVEIRE (Regenerative Value Systems for Irish Grown Wool in Ireland) and SPRINGWOOL will present the projects’ work on developing more sustainable and circular approaches to Irish wool, including local scouring, improved resource utilisation, environmental assessment and the development of new value-added applications. The event will also mark the launch of WOOLMARKED, a project focused on testing wool for contaminants and establishing limit levels to support the appropriate use of wool in different applications, helping to build confidence in the quality and suitability of Irish wool for diverse markets. Building on these research presentations, a facilitated design thinking workshop will bring stakeholders together to identify the key challenges and opportunities facing the Irish wool value chain. Through collaborative discussion, participants will explore industry needs, potential applications, barriers to commercialisation and opportunities for collaboration across the sector. The workshop will help ensure that ongoing research is informed by stakeholder priorities and will encourage the development of practical ideas and future actions to strengthen the value, sustainability and market potential of Irish Grown Wool.