UNIST has entered into a strategic partnership with Fincantieri, Europe’s largest shipbuilder based in Trieste, Italy. Together, the two organizations aim to foster open innovation in the development of eco-friendly energy technologies through robust industry-university collaboration and support for technology startups.
On March 13, representatives from both organizations presented their research capabilities and explored potential avenues for cooperation. A key focus was the integration of UNIST’s Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technology with Fincantieri’s expertise in manufacturing cruise ships and warships. This collaboration seeks to address the future energy challenges facing the maritime industry.
Key officials at the meeting included Salvatore Bonacorso, Head of Open Innovation Ecosystems and Hubs at Fincantieri, and Stefano Piantoni, CEO of IDS Korea Ltd. Additionally, Marco Marinucci, CEO of Mind the Bridge, and Deoksoo Ko, CEO of Carbon Value Co., Ltd., were also present.
UNIST was represented by Dean KwanMyung Kim of Research Affairs and Professor Hankwon Lim from the Graduate School of Carbon Neutrality. Professor Lim highlighted an ongoing demonstration project focused on CCUS technology in partnership with Carbon Value Co., Ltd., showcasing its potential for real-world applications.
“We are committed to developing eco-friendly technologies with UNIST to enhance the sustainability of the shipbuilding industry,” stated Bonacorso, Head of Open Innovation Ecosystems and Hubs at Fincantieri.
UNIST President Chong Rae Park remarked, “This partnership presents a pivotal opportunity for our research outcomes to create tangible impacts in global industries.” He further noted, “We look forward to collaborating with leading shipbuilders to research and commercialize innovative eco-friendly energy technologies, particularly in the realm of carbon neutrality.”