Welsh University Converts Dairy Waste into Sustainable Building Materials

The University of South Wales (USW) has initiated the WHEY2BUILD project to convert dairy processing waste, specifically whey, into materials that can be utilized in the construction industry. This effort is part of a broader goal to support the growth of a circular bioeconomy and address sustainability challenges in both the food and construction sectors.

The project, led by Dr. Rhys Jon Jones from USW's Sustainable Environment Research Centre (SERC), has received funding from the SWITCH to Net Zero Buildings (SNZB) programme, under the EPSRC Place Based Impact Acceleration Account (PBIAA). The Welsh dairy cooperative First Milk is a key partner in this initiative.

The WHEY2BUILD project aims to explore natural biological processes that convert whey waste into low-carbon building materials. This not only represents an innovation in sustainable construction technologies but also creates potential new revenue streams for Welsh dairy producers who currently incur costs managing their by-products.

Dr. Jones, who has been involved with USW since 2011, brings extensive expertise in biorefineries and waste valorisation. His previous projects have included the award-winning COACE project, which demonstrated the conversion of industrial greenhouse gases into valuable chemicals.

Professor Alan Guwy, Director of SERC, highlighted the significance of WHEY2BUILD in demonstrating how academic research can address environmental challenges and foster industrial collaboration. The project is seen as a step towards making net-zero construction feasible on a regional level.