On November 28, the Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation at the Technical University of Liberec (CXI TUL) welcomed an important Brazilian delegation consisting of mayors, regional leaders, urban development experts, and representatives of innovative organizations. The visit was part of an international mission led by the Association of European Border Regions (AEBR), whose goal is to exchange experiences in the areas of Smart Cities, the circular economy, and sustainable development.
Artificial wetlands attracted attention
The presentation of nature-based constructed wetlands, i.e., root wastewater treatment plants, attracted particular attention. Their effectiveness, financial costs, maintenance requirements, and long-term sustainability were discussed. Delegates were interested in how these systems could be used in small towns and villages, agricultural settlements, remote communities with limited infrastructure, and family farms, where low-cost and operationally simple systems are needed. Such measures are of particular interest to Brazil because they offer an environmentally friendly solution for regions where traditional treatment plants are not economically or technically feasible.
Connection to the LIFE program
The visit also included information about projects implemented under the LIFE Program, which focus on green infrastructure, landscape revitalization, and biodiversity support at CXI TUL. The delegation appreciated how LIFE projects demonstrate the functional interconnection of technology, nature conservation, and sustainable water management.
LIFE4ZOO
The LIFE4ZOO project attracted particular interest, as its outputs show how nature-based measures – including wetlands and retention elements – can improve water quality, restore natural ecosystems, and promote biodiversity. The Brazilian delegation was particularly interested in the fact that these solutions can function without demanding operation, can be scaled from small municipalities to larger territorial units, and benefit agriculture and livestock farming.
The mayors of smaller Brazilian towns were inspired by the idea of transferring similar measures to their communities, where it is necessary to combine economic affordability, low maintenance, and ecological stability.
Tour of 3D printing laboratories
The visit also included a tour of the 3D printing laboratories, which greatly interested the delegation. The meeting concluded with a visit to the roof of the CXI building overlooking Liberec, where the guests experienced snow, which was an unexpected but all the more powerful experience.
The delegation appreciated the technological progress of CXI TUL and strategic projects linking innovation with nature conservation. The discussion confirmed that topics such as sustainable water management, nature-based technologies, smart infrastructure, and support for small businesses are relevant to both sides. The meeting opened up space for possible future cooperation.
