Sustainability was the focus of debate at Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto during the inauguration of the new Corticeira Amorim Auditorium. This modern, fully equipped space hosted its first talk with the presence of Isabel Capeloa Gil, Rector of Universidade Católica Portuguesa, António Rios Amorim, Chairman of Corticeira Amorim, and João Pinto, Dean of Católica Porto Business School.
Isabel Capeloa Gil addressed the concept of Integral Ecology at Universidade Católica Portuguesa as a way of seeking an ethical and evidence-based response to global challenges, whether they concern culture and environmental sustainability, intergenerational justice, the green economy and the fight against systemic poverty, or economic growth and sustainability, among others.
“How can we transform the university so that knowledge is not just a disciplinary silo?” questioned the Rector of UCP, stating that “the challenge of Integral Ecology is to revolutionise the scientific method”. Among the various initiatives highlighted, the Rector of UCP mentioned the Insure Hub, co-led by João Pinto, as an initiative creating an ecosystem between academia and the business sector, promoting a holistic vision for more sustainable businesses and, consequently, a better society. She also highlighted UCP's new PhD in Integral Ecology – unique in Portugal and worldwide – which links different areas of knowledge, enabling a broad perspective and “an understanding of our contemporary times.” The role of a university, she explained, “is not only to train professionals but also to form civically responsible individuals and citizens”.
The topic of “Sustainability and Innovation” was addressed by António Rios Amorim, Chairman of Corticeira Amorim, who stated that at Corticeira, “sustainability is embedded across all business areas”. During his talk, he discussed the company as a driving force in research and development of a 100 per cent natural product – cork. This material is now used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, construction and architecture, sports, energy, design, and wines, sparkling wines, and spirits, among many others.
A new auditorium that breathes sustainability
The event, which took place on 9th September, also featured a roundtable on the theme “Sustainability, Innovation, and Business.” Moderated by Célia Manaia, a member of the executive committee of the Porto Regional Centre of Universidade Católica Portuguesa, the discussion included João Pinto, Dean of Católica Porto Business School, Isabel Barros, Executive Director at Sonae MC, and Manuela Pintado, Director of the Centre for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry (CBQF).
When asked about the barriers to sustainable innovation, João Pinto highlighted three key challenges: “the challenge of leadership, the challenge of financing, and the challenge of literacy in sustainability”. The Dean of CPBS also emphasised that innovation is “fundamental for sustainable development.”
Manuela Pintado shared that “sustainability makes sense when we see it as an integrated chain. That integration is essential”. For the Director of CBQF, “innovation must be ethical and inclusive to avoid creating further inequalities.”
Isabel Barros stated that “when sustainability is at the core of the business, there is no way to do it well without innovation as a lever”. “It’s what allows us to transform the business and find solutions,” she added. The Executive Director at Sonae MC also emphasised that “in retail, there is a strong concern about informing the consumer, and much more needs to be done to improve consumer literacy on sustainability.”
The inauguration of the new Corticeira Amorim Auditorium at the Porto campus of UCP is the result of a strategic partnership between Universidade Católica Portuguesa and Corticeira Amorim.
Isabel Braga da Cruz, Pro-Rector of Universidade Católica Portuguesa, stated that the name of the new auditorium “carries with it the prestige and global leadership of the cork industry” and represents “a partnership of which we are very proud”. “This auditorium is a testament to a solid relationship that looks to the future”, she added. “The partnership with Corticeira Amorim reinforces our commitment to aligning academia with business practice”, and the new auditorium, along with other initiatives that connect both entities, is “a reflection of the shared values both entities hold, particularly the commitment to a sustainable world”.
The debate reflected the commitment of Universidade Católica Portuguesa to sustainability and innovation, a commitment also evident in the partnerships established, such as that with Corticeira Amorim, which aligns with the university's sustainability strategy as well as its policy of strengthening ties between academia and businesses. “The Corticeira Amorim Auditorium, named under the partnership, has been completely refurbished with the latest technology to enhance the student experience, reflecting the values of sustainability that this partnership represents”, noted Isabel Braga da Cruz, Pro-Rector of Universidade Católica Portuguesa.
The event was attended by around 100 invited guests, including many of Universidade Católica Portuguesa’s partner companies.
