SETU Partners with Enterprise Ireland for €1.1 Million Sustainability Projects

On October 7, 2025, South East Technological University (SETU) announced the launch of two significant research commercialisation projects valued at over €1.1 million, supported by Enterprise Ireland. These initiatives aim to translate Irish research into practical solutions that address pressing global challenges.

Innovative Housing Compliance Tool

The first project, known as HAL, is spearheaded by Dr. Patrick Lynch, director of the RIKON Research Centre at SETU’s Faculty of Business. HAL is a digital platform designed to streamline housing compliance through the use of artificial intelligence. The system digitises inspections and evaluates regulatory compliance, generating real-time reports for landlords and local authorities. By acting as a compliance passport, HAL aims to enhance the safety and sustainability of housing.

AI-Powered Food Waste Reduction

The second project, called Eye-Q, is led by a team of researchers including Dr. Ultan McCarthy, Dr. Anastasia Ktenioudaki, and Dr. Yuanyuan Pu from SETU’s Department of Land Sciences. Eye-Q leverages AI technology to minimise food waste across the agrifood supply chain, effectively addressing issues from production to consumption. By facilitating smarter monitoring and decision-making, Eye-Q assists businesses, retailers, and consumers in reducing waste, enhancing food security, and contributing to broader sustainability goals.

“These awards reflect SETU’s strength in mobilising interdisciplinary teams across business, technology, and the sciences,” stated Dr. James O’Sullivan, Head of Innovation and Commercialisation at SETU. He emphasised the role of these innovations in tackling urgent societal challenges while fostering commercial opportunities and creating high-value jobs.

Nakul Wali, Senior Commercialisation Specialist at Enterprise Ireland, highlighted the significance of these projects, asserting, “HAL and Eye-Q demonstrate how innovation can deliver both economic growth and societal impact, positioning Ireland at the forefront of housing technology and sustainable food systems.”

With a combined project value exceeding €1.1 million, HAL and Eye-Q underscore SETU’s commitment to research-led innovation and enterprise. These projects exemplify Enterprise Ireland’s dedication to supporting breakthrough solutions with global relevance, marking a notable advancement in Ireland’s technological landscape.