ECOBALLIFE Consortium Meeting in Tampere: Advancing Protection Through Collaboration

The ECOBALLIFE Consortium Meeting took place in Tampere, Finland, on 2–3 September 2025, marking 25 months of project development. Hosted by VTT and FY Composites, the meeting brought together the full General Assembly and External Advisory Board (EAB) members. Over the course of two days, partners reviewed progress, exchanged insights, and aligned on next steps to advance personal protection systems using sustainable materials and innovative technologies.

ECOBALLIFE Consortium Meeting focuses on Technical Progress and Expert Feedback

On 2 September, VTT welcomed participants to the ECOBALLIFE Consortium Meeting for a full day of technical sessions. First, partners presented updates across all technical work packages, highlighting achievements, addressing challenges, and outlining future plans. As a result, the Consortium engaged in productive discussions and clarified priorities.

Following the presentations, EAB members provided constructive feedback. Their insights helped partners refine technical approaches and strengthen the project’s overall impact. Moreover, the feedback encouraged deeper consideration of end-user needs and practical implementation.

Later in the afternoon, the Consortium visited FY Composites’ facility. As WP6 leader, FY Composites showcased their work with fibre-reinforced composites and ecological materials. Their contributions play a key role in developing sustainable personal protection equipment. In addition, the visit offered practical insights and reinforced the project’s technical ambitions.

Day 2: Strategic Planning and Integration

On 3 September, the ECOBALLIFE Consortium Meeting shifted focus to non-technical work packages. Partners presented progress from the past six months, covering dissemination, exploitation, and coordination. Consequently, the sessions ensured alignment across work streams and clarified roles moving forward.

After the presentations, a dedicated workshop addressed WP6 and proof-of-concept development. Partners explored integration opportunities and discussed cross-cutting themes essential to the project’s success. Furthermore, the workshop encouraged collaborative thinking and long-term planning.

To conclude the day, VTT guided the Consortium through its research infrastructure. The tour showcased advanced materials and platform protection components developed under WP5. These innovations support the technical backbone of ECOBALLIFE and demonstrate the project’s forward momentum.

Social Interactions: Strengthening Collaboration

Before the official sessions began, the ECOBALLIFE Consortium Meeting started with an informal dinner on 1 September. This relaxed setting allowed partners to reconnect, build rapport, and set a positive tone for the meeting.

Following the technical sessions and site visit on day one, the Consortium joined a formal dinner with EAB members and General Assembly participants. Throughout the evening, partners exchanged ideas, strengthened relationships, and reinforced their shared commitment to the project.

Stay tuned for more news and updates right here!