InnoRenew CoE recently successfully acquired a new INTERREG Alpine Space research project, WOOLSHED: A New Era for Alpine Wool. The project aims to address the underutilization of coarse wool in the Alpine region by developing innovative and sustainable processing solutions.

Currently, large quantities of coarse wool are discarded, posing an environmental issue and economic challenge. WOOLSHED seeks to transform this underused resource into a valuable commodity, revitalizing the wool industry and fostering innovation among small-scale businesses. By integrating research, design, and small-scale, cost-effective technologies, the project envisions a modernized Alpine wool sector that is both sustainable and economically viable.

The project fosters collaboration, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting innovative approaches. Led by Italian Università Iuav di Venezia, WOOLSHED unites partners from five Alpine countries – Italy, Slovenia, Switzerland, France, and Austria – ensuring knowledge sharing, tailored solutions, and regional impact. At InnoRenew CoE project activities will be carried out by Dr. Jakub Sandak.

WOOLSHED pioneers coarse wool transformation, preserving heritage, fostering accessible innovations, and empowering local mountain communities. It not only develops technologies but also supports processors, promotes wool use, and reduces environmental impact. It embodies circular innovation, emphasizing community empowerment and sustainable practices.

It is a 3 year project, including partners Iuav Di Venezia, Onl’fait, Laines d’ici, Consortium Center, Chamber of Agriculture and Forestry of Slovenia Institute of Agriculture and Forestry Nova Gorica, InnoRenew CoE, Le Textile Lab, and Impact Hub Vienna.

Thanks to this collaborative project, the alpine wool will regain its value, and become a valuable resource once again.