USW Project Aims to Transform Dairy Whey Waste into Building Materials

The University of South Wales (USW) has launched the WHEY2BUILD project, an innovative research initiative focused on transforming dairy whey waste into sustainable building materials. The project is led by Dr. Rhys Jon Jones from USW's Sustainable Environment Research Centre and is part of the SWITCH to Net Zero Buildings programme, funded by the EPSRC Place Based Impact Acceleration Account.

WHEY2BUILD partners with First Milk, a prominent UK dairy co-operative, to utilize natural biological processes for converting whey waste. This approach not only supports a circular bioeconomy but also offers a new revenue stream for Welsh dairy producers, who currently incur high costs for waste management.

Professor Alan Guwy, director of SERC, emphasized the project's role in turning environmental challenges into industrial opportunities. The initiative showcases how academic innovation, combined with industrial collaboration, can drive sustainable growth and support the transition to net zero emissions.

USW, with campuses in Newport, Cardiff, and Pontypridd, attracts students from over 100 countries and maintains strong industry partnerships. These collaborations enhance the university's research and education goals, making its contributions valuable both locally and globally.