This Wednesday, CERENA – Centre for Natural Resources and the Environment celebrated its 10th anniversary, bringing together national and international speakers to discuss some of the major issues related to Natural Resources and Environment: the links between academia and industry, the new technological developments on oil exploration, environment and climate, and the challenges of mining industry, were some of the topics approached.

Professor Maria João Pereira, president of CERENA, opened the session explaining the work carried out at CERENA, whose main goal is “to do top-level research” in its area of expertise.

“In addition, one of our major concerns is transferring technology to companies, allowing that solutions we develop here can be tradable”, explained the professor, before the signing ceremony of protocols with Beicip-Franlab and Partex Oil and Gas.

The president of Técnico, professor Arlindo Oliveira, also left a few words to the audience, ensuring that “Técnico has a long tradition of cooperation with companies acting in natural resources sector”.

“We must understand that scientific productivity does not mean a less cooperation with companies. CERENA’s role has been outstanding: develops top-level research and has a tight cooperation with industry.”

The professor took the opportunity to talk about Técnico Partner Program, aiming to foster collaboration with companies in a more “fruitful and lasting” way. “ I challenge Partex and Beicip-Franlab to join this program and extend their partnership to the entire Técnico, and not just CERENA.”