ISMAT Design Discusses Innovation and Sustainability at TEMPO.

Sustainable design and innovation at the Portimão Seminar - By Teia de Impulsos

The Portimão Municipal Theatre (TEMPO) hosted the II Sustainability Seminar on March 6th, an initiative of the Teia d’Impulsos Association that marked the association's 15th anniversary and was part of the March Youth program.

The event brought together experts, institutions, and local entities around the theme "Sustainability in the Algarve: Concepts, Projects and Best Practices," promoting dialogue on strategies and concrete solutions for a more responsible and balanced future in the region. In Panel 2 – Innovation and Technology for Climate Transition, Professor Susana Leonor, Director of the Bachelor's Degree in Communication Design, the Master's Degree in Biodesign, and lecturer in the Master's Degree in Design for the Circular Economy at the Department of Architecture, Art and Design of ISMAT, presented the strategic path that design has been developing in the areas of communication, product, and services, based on principles of sustainability, the use of biomaterials, and regenerative approaches.

The professor argued that design should assume an active role in ecological and social transformation, articulating technology, creativity, and environmental awareness. Alongside Pedro Lopes, from the Pestana Group, and João Raposo, from Âmango – Intelligent Energy, Susana Leonor highlighted the importance of integrating innovation and responsibility in the development of balanced economic and environmental solutions.

The debate reinforced the role of design and technology in building tourism and a territory more adapted to the climate challenges of the future.

The session reaffirmed ISMAT's commitment to education for sustainability and to promoting best practices in social and environmental innovation, strengthening the connection between academia, businesses, and the community.