Three researchers from the Department of Economics at Cork University Business School (CUBS), University College Cork, have secured funding as part of a groundbreaking project aimed at revitalising Ireland’s wool industry through sustainable innovation.
Prof. Valeria Andreoni, Dr Tracy Bradfield, and Dr Bernadette Power are core members of the newly funded project titled Regenerative Value Systems for Irish Grown Wool in Ireland (REVEIRE). The project, which has been awarded €657,403, is led by Dr Archishman Bose, Lecturer in Process and Chemical Engineering at UCC.
REVEIRE sets out to challenge the current perception of Irish wool, which is commonly categorised as a low-value by-product of sheep meat production. With Ireland producing approximately 7 million kilogrammes of wool annually, the project aims to explore untapped opportunities for Irish-grown "strong wool" across industries including textiles, packaging, and housing insulation.
The CUBS research team will play a pivotal role in identifying market opportunities for locally scoured wool and assessing its potential across various industries. Their work will include engaging with potential buyers, understanding market demands, and developing innovative business models that promote local wool processing and cascading biorefineries. The research will also evaluate the broader environmental and economic impacts of regenerating the Irish wool value chain.
Speaking on the significance of the project, Dr Tracy Bradfield highlighted the dual impact for farmers and the wider public:
“The cost of shearing sheep is often higher than the price farmers receive for the wool. Therefore, this research will provide direct financial benefits for sheep farmers. The wider society will also benefit as wool is renewable and compostable, enhancing the sustainability of consumer products.”
About REVEIRE
REVEIRE is Ireland’s first comprehensive sustainability assessment of Irish-grown wool. By generating data and evidence, the project aims to guide Government policy, support bioeconomy initiatives, and catalyse investment in the wool sector. It envisions transforming wool from a low-value waste product into a core component of a circular and regenerative bioeconomy.
Through this work, REVEIRE not only promises economic revitalisation for sheep farmers and wool producers but also aims to empower consumers to make informed choices that support sustainable, circular bio-based businesses.