MTU Launches Pilot Green Biorefinery at Kerry Campus

The opening of the pilot green biorefinery at Munster Technological University’s (MTU) Kerry campus represents a transformative moment for Ireland’s bioeconomy. On January 8, 2026, the university unveiled this cutting-edge facility, designed to showcase how local agricultural resources can be converted into sustainable, high-value products, ranging from bio-based chemicals to precursors for bioplastics.

A New Era for Grassland Resources

At the heart of the project is the conversion of grass—a resource Ireland has in abundance—into a variety of commercial outputs. By utilizing advanced separation technologies, the biorefinery extracts protein for animal feed, fiber for paper or packaging, and essential sugars that serve as the fundamental building blocks for biodegradable plastics.

This “green” approach ensures that every fraction of the raw material is utilized, epitomizing the principles of a circular economy. By extracting high-value molecules before the remaining biomass is processed, the facility maximizes the economic potential of every acre of Irish grassland.

Driving Rural Innovation and Sustainability

The initiative is more than a technical achievement; it is a strategic move to support rural development. By situating the plant in Kerry, MTU is providing local farmers with new revenue streams and sustainable alternatives to traditional intensive farming. The facility serves as a “living lab,” where researchers, students, and industry partners can collaborate to test the scalability of bio-based solutions.

This collaboration bridges the gap between laboratory research and commercial production. It positions MTU as a pivotal player in the bioplastic sector, demonstrating how academic expertise can drive industrial decarbonization.

Scalability and the Fossil-Free Future

As global demand for petroleum-based plastics declines due to environmental regulations and consumer pressure, facilities like the MTU biorefinery offer a viable roadmap for a fossil-free future. The pilot program aims to prove that decentralized, small-scale biorefineries can be economically viable in rural settings.

If successful, this model could be replicated across Europe, turning agricultural heartlands into engines of sustainable manufacturing. With this launch, MTU reaffirms its commitment to climate action, ensuring that the future of Irish industry is both ecologically resilient and economically competitive.

Source: Read more Contact James Gaffey, Co-Director