Assessment of social and cultural factors in CCU-technology uptake in urban communities and developing countries
The EU-funded research project WaterProof is developing an electrochemistry based CO₂-conversion technology transforming CO₂ from waste incineration and wastewater treatment facilities into formic acid
When it comes to innovate technologies like Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) solutions the uptake of relevant stakeholder groups can determine the success and transferability. The EU-funded research project WaterProof is developing an electrochemistry based CO2-conversion technology transforming CO2 from waste incineration and wastewater treatment facilities into formic acid. To ensure high transferability of this technology, the WaterProof team sets a priority on the assessment of social and cultural factors. In this interview Daniela Zapata López and Jaime A Arboleda Palacio from project partner Centre of Science and Technology of Antioquia (CTA) provide insights on assessment methods and key-factors of supporting stakeholder acceptance nd adoption of innovative technologies in urban communities and developing countries.
- 1. How does CTA plan to assess the social and cultural factors that may influence the adoption and appropriation of electrochemical CO₂ conversion technologies in urban communities in Colombia, particularly in Medellín?
CTA plans to assess the different social and cultural factors influencing business and community dynamics across various sectors involved in the technology process - from waste treatment and CO₂ generation to capture, conversion, and utilization.
First by establish a base line that includes: Medellín socio-demographic characteristics, topography, waste and emissions generation patterns, air quality challenges, and community awareness of these issues. It is also assessing key waste management services (main wastewater treatment plant, landfill, and big cement industry), population needs related to wastewater treatment and emissions mitigation. Additionally, CTA aims to identify stakeholders within the socio-technical system and explore behavioural patterns in companies and individuals: How do they manage waste? How do they treat water? How do they adopt new chemical solutions derived from these technologies?
Based on this information, CTA is identifying the main factors involved on the different stages of the process are part of Medellín culture, the level of access to this kind of information, and what kind of divulgation and education strategies are needed for the adoption of WaterProof electrochemical CO2conversion technology in Colombia.
- 2. When it comes to the acceptance and support of new technologies, the uptake by local communities is key. What strategies is CTA considering to engage local stakeholders in the process and promote community involvement in the potential implementation of WaterProof's CCU technologies in Colombian urban areas?
CTA works in the design of different strategies based on the territorial context previously analysed, starting from structured and organized participation spaces, based on the knowledge of their environmental impacts, educational in environment topics with the industry, government, and organizations related to the entity, environmental education groups, social programs they develop as: Environmental roundtables, technical secretariats, Local environmental plans, technical workshops as in the Water chair. Information that points to each thing and to each aspect by Focus groups where CTA initiate by guiding questions and start the discussion regarding WaterProof project relation with the community needs in terms of political, social, economic, and technical. Considering what is working well in these sites, and encourage the stakeholders themself generates this type of spaces, in terms of sustainability, starting from the experiences that already exist, what has been done to mitigate these issues? To then transferring the knowledge to develop it themselves, starting from the knowledge that people have and combining technical knowledge.
These strategies focuses on three key aspects:
- Strategic Implementation in Waste and Industrial Sectors – By discussing electrochemical CO₂ conversion in wastewater treatment plants, landfills, and high-emission industries, Medellín can transform CO₂ into valuable products like sustainable chemicals and fuels. This not only reduces emissions but also creates new economic opportunities.
- Public-Private Collaboration and Policy Integration – CTA aims to align this technology with national and local environmental policies, working closely with government agencies and private sector stakeholders to secure funding, incentives, and regulatory support.
- Community Engagement and Social Appropriation – Ensuring technology adoption requires educational programs, industry training, and participatory spaces where communities understand the benefits and contribute to the adaptation process. Through workshops, environmental roundtables, and local innovation hubs, CTA will promote social ownership and acceptance.
- 3. Given Colombia's unique environmental and economic context, how does CTA envision an ideal adaptation of the WaterProof project's electrochemical processes to address specific urban challenges in cities like Medellín?
CTA envisions the adaptation of the WaterProof project's electrochemical CO₂ conversion processes in Medellín by integrating technological innovation with the city's environmental and economic priorities. Given Medellín’s air pollution challenges, high industrial activity, and growing sustainability commitments. This future scenario includes national and local government funding mechanisms for the development and implementation of CCU (Carbon Capture and Utilization) systems in waste treatment facilities, alongside increased investment from public and private industries in electrochemical CO₂ conversion.
Furthermore, CTA aims to foster a significant rise in knowledge, acceptance, and support across business sectors and the general community. This includes greater willingness to invest in sustainable waste treatment services and consumer products derived from these technologies.
By integrating policy support, industry commitment, and community engagement, Medellín can position itself as a leader in sustainable innovation and carbon management.
- 4. Considering CTA's expertise in promoting science, technology, and innovation, what educational or awareness programs could be developed to facilitate the understanding and acceptance of CCU technologies among urban communities in Colombia?
CTA is committed to advancing educational programs in both academic and business contexts to promote science, technology, and innovation. Its initiatives range from fostering scientific vocations in young people to teaching and collaborating with graduate and postgraduate experts. Additionally, CTA provides specialized consultancy to industries and implements social appropriation strategies to ensure that knowledge developed in academic and industrial sectors is effectively transferred back to communities.
In recent years, these efforts have been strongly focused on environmental and sustainability topics. Through practice communities and networks, CTA enhances the reach and impact of emerging global, national, and local technological advancements, innovative production processes, and best practices. By bridging academia, industry, and society, CTA drives sustainable development and technological adoption for a more resilient future.
Download the interview here.
To learn more about the WaterProof project, visit https://waterproof-project.eu.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Source: nova-Institute, original text, 2025-02-19.