SETU Drives Sustainability with €1.1 Million in Housing and Food Projects

South East Technological University (SETU) is spearheading two significant research commercialisation projects, backed by Enterprise Ireland, with a combined value exceeding €1.1 million. These initiatives aim to convert innovative Irish research into practical solutions addressing global challenges in housing compliance and food sustainability.

Innovative Solutions for Housing Compliance

The first project, named HAL, is directed by Dr. Patrick Lynch, who leads the RIKON Research Centre within SETU’s Faculty of Business. HAL is a digital platform designed to streamline housing compliance processes. By digitising inspections and utilising artificial intelligence, the platform assesses regulatory requirements and generates real-time reports tailored for landlords and local authorities. This system acts as a compliance passport, significantly enhancing the delivery of safer and more sustainable housing options.

AI Technology Tackles Food Waste

The second project, Eye-Q, is a collaborative effort led by Dr. Ultan McCarthy, Dr. Anastasia Ktenioudaki, and Dr. Yuanyuan Pu from SETU’s Department of Land Sciences. Eye-Q is an AI-driven solution aimed at minimising food waste across the agrifood supply chain, from production to consumption. By facilitating smarter monitoring and decision-making, the technology empowers businesses, retailers, and consumers to reduce waste, thereby bolstering food security and supporting global sustainability initiatives.

“These projects exemplify SETU’s capability to mobilise interdisciplinary teams across business, technology, and the sciences,” stated Dr. James O’Sullivan, Head of Innovation and Commercialisation at SETU. He emphasised that with the backing of Enterprise Ireland, the university is advancing innovations that not only address pressing societal issues but also create commercial opportunities and high-value employment.

Enterprise Ireland underscored the significance of these investments in fostering innovation. Nakul Wali, Senior Commercialisation Specialist at the organisation, remarked, “HAL and Eye-Q illustrate how innovation can drive both economic growth and societal benefits, positioning Ireland at the forefront of housing technology and sustainable food systems.”

The combined efforts of HAL and Eye-Q highlight SETU’s increasing influence as a catalyst for research-led innovation and enterprise development. With a total project value of more than €1.1 million, these initiatives affirm Enterprise Ireland’s commitment to fostering breakthrough solutions that have global relevance.