Łukasiewicz – PORT and BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions are jointly introducing young people to the world of chemistry and technology through an innovative approach to education and environmental protection. Free classes for children from Wrocław and the surrounding area.
Wrocław, 25/10/2024 – The first cycle of the BASF ECMS Academy has begun at Łukasiewicz – PORT. As part of this unique initiative, 300 young participants will take on the roles of engineers, solving real-world environmental protection challenges. The classes, prepared by educators from Ogrody Doświadczeń and experts from BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions, will enable participants to create their own automotive catalyst samples—technology of key importance for improving air quality.
“Integrating science and business is a strategic pillar of our activities, and the development of partnerships—especially with local enterprises—is key to achieving our long-term goals. Initiatives such as the BASF ECMS Academy make it possible to effectively transfer innovative solutions from laboratories into market practice, while at the same time strengthening relationships with the local community. For a research institute, education is an investment of the highest priority—we believe that fostering an interest in science from an early age plays a crucial role in shaping future innovation leaders,” said Prof. Jarosław Bosy, Director of Łukasiewicz – PORT Polish Center for Technology Development.
“Cooperation with Łukasiewicz – PORT Polish Center for Technology Development allows us to inspire young people by bringing them closer to both chemistry and our environmental initiatives. We are proud to share knowledge that will help build a more sustainable future,” said Anna Tarasewicz, Member of the Management Board of BASF Catalysts Polska.
This initiative is part of a broader science popularization program at Łukasiewicz – PORT Polish Center for Technology Development. “Over the past two years, we have conducted more than 1,000 classes for 14,000 students. We believe that through these workshops, young people will discover the fascinating world of research, and many of them will choose a scientific career in the future,” said Marek Staniewicz, Director of the Department of the Social Responsibility of Science at Łukasiewicz – PORT Polish Center for Technology Development.
Academy participants will have the opportunity to work with technology used at BASF’s catalyst manufacturing plant in Środa Śląska—one of the most advanced facilities in Europe. This is an excellent opportunity for young people to learn how innovative solutions can have a real impact on environmental protection. “We engage in education because we believe there is no better investment than investing in the education of children and youth. This is the future—it allows us to level opportunities, share our knowledge, and strengthen cooperation between business and science,” emphasized Jan Eberhardt, President of the Management Board of BASF Catalysts Polska.
The workshops, aimed at students from the final grades of primary and secondary schools in Wrocław and the surrounding area, will be completely free of charge, with all costs covered by BASF. “We have been present in the region for 10 years and continue to expand our footprint. It is extremely important for us to balance economic success with environmental and social aspects. The launch of the BASF ECMS Academy is another step in our mission to support the education of children and young people,” said Markus Steigner, Member of the Management Board of BASF Catalysts Polska.
About BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions
Leveraging its deep expertise as a global leader in catalysis and precious metals, BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions (ECMS) serves customers across a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, indoor air quality, semiconductors, and the hydrogen economy. The company also provides comprehensive precious metals trading and recycling services.
By focusing on circular solutions and sustainability, ECMS is committed to helping customers create a cleaner and more sustainable world. Protecting the elements of our lives is at the core of our mission and continues to inspire new solutions.
ECMS operates globally in 15 countries, encompassing approximately 20 production sites and more than 4,000 employees. In Poland, BASF ECMS operates its most advanced catalyst production plant in Środa Śląska, as well as a global office in Wrocław.
About the Institute
Łukasiewicz Research Network – PORT Polish Center for Technology Development
Łukasiewicz – PORT Polish Center for Technology Development is part of the Łukasiewicz Research Network, one of Europe’s leading research organizations, bringing together more than 20 institutes. The Network conducts advanced research and commercializes innovations by integrating science with industry, thereby strengthening the competitiveness of the Polish economy on the global market.
The Wrocław-based Łukasiewicz – PORT specializes in biotechnology, materials engineering, and medical diagnostics, developing technologies in cooperation with domestic and international partners. Internationally, PORT participates in prestigious Horizon Europe programs that support the creation of interdisciplinary centers of excellence for precision medicine. Through these projects, an International Research Agenda (IRA) will be established, stimulating innovation in oncology and neurology by integrating national and international research centers.
Thanks to its advanced infrastructure, highly qualified teams, and extensive international connections, Łukasiewicz – PORT is an attractive partner for local scientific and business communities, supporting innovation and competitiveness in Lower Silesia. The Institute aspires to become a leading research and development hub, delivering world-class services and actively contributing to the growth of innovation and regional competitiveness on a global scale.
