by InTrieste
Interview: University of Trieste Rector, Roberto Di Lenarda; University of Udine Rector, Roberto Pinton; FVG governor, Massimiliano Fedriga
The University of Trieste, alongside the University of Udine, has signed a renewed Framework Agreement with AUSIR (the Unified Authority for Water and Waste Services of Friuli Venezia Giulia) and key regional service providers.
This agreement, which includes companies such as AcegasApsAmga, Acquedotto del Carso – Kraški vodovod, CAFC, HydroGEA, Irisacqua, Livenza Tagliamento Acque, A&T 2000, Ambiente Servizi, GEA – Gestioni Ecologiche e Ambientali, Isontina Ambiente, MTF, and NET, aims to strengthen collaboration in the areas of water management and waste services.
The new agreement, signed at the Palazzo della Regione in Trieste on Thursday, builds on a similar accord established in 2019, expanding the scope of cooperation in research, innovation, and training for managing integrated water cycles and waste disposal. The framework aims to promote applied research projects, joint educational initiatives, and participation in competitive funding opportunities. It will also enhance the use of shared data, resources, and technical infrastructure.
Professor Paolo Bevilacqua from the University of Trieste’s Department of Engineering and Architecture and Professor Fabio Barbone from the Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences will lead the university’s involvement in the initiative. The agreement also supports the continued development of inter-university master’s programs, such as those focused on the “Technology and Management of the Integrated Water Cycle” and “Circular Economy and Integrated Waste Management.”
Roberto Di Lenarda, Rector of the University of Trieste, emphasized that the agreement represents a significant opportunity to initiate new research projects that address the complex challenges of sustainable resource management. “The areas of collaboration cover a broad spectrum, from studying aquifer systems and infrastructure to managing wastewater and sludge. We will also focus on the economic and regulatory aspects of public services, as well as the role of waste valorization within the circular economy,” Di Lenarda said. “A key component of this effort is communication and education, which are crucial for fostering awareness and driving change, both technically and socially.”
