Horizon Europe (HE) Impact Conference at the National Convention Centre celebrated Ireland’s achievements in securing €836 million from the EU’s HE 2021-2027 research and innovation programme.
Among the highlighted initiatives were two MU and Innovation Value Institute (IVI) 'GoGreenNext' HE projects. The projects tackle challenges from climate change and biodiversity loss, which pose health risks and threaten irreversible changes to our planet.
There was also an unveiling of a three-minute video spotlighting GoGreenNext’s mobile applications and virtual reality tools that drive transformative change in cities.
Dr Tadhg MacIntyre, Principal Investigator of GoGreenNext said, “Our GoGreen projects, supported by €17 million in EU funding, are rooted in the collaborative learning ecosystem at Maynooth University. I am particularly grateful for the leadership and commitment of Prof Eeva Leinonen, our President, and Prof Rachel Msetfi, to our research agenda on sustainability, health, and climate change.”
Prof Markus Helfert, Director of the IVI said, “Digital transformation is an integral part of our future, and HE funding is essential for advancing innovation and supporting societal change.”
Prof Rachel Msetfi, Vice President for Research and Innovation, Maynooth University said, “The Horizon Europe Impact Conference highlights the importance of ambitious and innovative collaborations, and it’s fantastic to see Maynooth University’s contribution showcased. Congratulations to the GoGreen Next team for continuing to lead on critical issues of climate and health.”
Mark Sweeney of HE's Cluster 6 Environment said, “The GoGreen team at MU exemplifies successful collaboration in addressing urban health and climate challenges. HE funding continues to support vital missions in climate change, smart cities, soil health, and food.”
The project also celebrates a strong partnership with the country of Malta, whose involvement has secured nearly €750,000 in EU funding. Collaborations include green infrastructure development with Malta’s Project Green, innovation with SMEs like Ecostack Innovations, and urban renewal initiatives with Gzira Council.
The event was attended by over 500 delegates including EU representatives, policymakers, and industry leaders, notably former EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness, Prof Luke O'Neill of Trinity College and Higher Education Secretary General Colm O'Reardon.
Additionally, the conference provided an opportunity to strengthen ties, with team members meeting Malta’s Ambassador to Ireland, H.E. Giovanni Buttigieg, ahead of Malta Day that took place on December 9.
