Research incubator promotes environmental innovation

Since its creation in 2014, the Research Seedbed in Production and Environment (SIPMA) has consolidated its position as a space for interaction between students and teachers, providing the opportunity to formalize research ideas for Industrial Engineering students of the University of Cundinamarca, Soacha extension.

The research group has participated in institutionally funded projects and collaborated with various institutions both nationally and internationally. According to Diana Karina López Carreño, Knowledge and Learning Manager for the Industrial Engineering and Master's in Engineering program at the Soacha campus, the group has distinguished itself through its academic output, receiving recognition at scientific events with meritorious distinctions, awards, and outstanding evaluations.

López Carreño explained that the development of joint research proposals has required extracurricular dedication from both students and faculty to collaborate with institutions such as the National University, the District University, ECCI, and the Lázaro Cárdenas Technological Institute in Michoacán, Mexico. These collaborations have generated significant progress in the design of waste management strategies.

Among the significant achievements highlighted are the design of prototypes for disinfecting wastewater from animal processing plants and the biodegradation of expanded polystyrene. Furthermore, technological capabilities have been strengthened through consulting services for small and medium-sized enterprises, including initiatives such as a prototype to replace bituminous coal in brick firing and the development of applications for administrative management.

The seedbed has also carried out community work such as raising awareness about the risks of lead in specific areas. Furthermore, it has proposed integrating local organizational capacities into concrete environmental initiatives.

It is worth noting that the SIPMA Research Group brings together individual efforts focused on co-creation proposals with a potentially sustainable social and organizational impact, both nationally and internationally. It faces significant challenges in terms of public science dissemination and increasing knowledge appropriation in various emerging social spheres.

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