​Research​

The Wisconsin Institute for Sustainable Technology works in partnership with businesses, other universities and nonprofit institutions. Research objectives include exploring new uses for agricultural and forestry resources. 

Contact us to discuss your proposals for bespoke research.

 

 


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For more information about WIST research or to explore research opportunities, contact: 
Pau​l Fowler, WIST Executive Director ​

An Assessment of the Economic Contribution of Pulp, Paper and Converting to the State of Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation contracted with WIST to have the institute review and report the economic impact of Wisconsin's pulp, paper and converting industries in 2019. The institute presented the findings of the research project to an audience of approximately 75 people--industry professionals, elected official, policy makers and others. You can view a PowerPoint of the presentation or view a video of the presentation. The report found that Wisconsin's paper industry leads the nation in many economic measures, including number of employees and value of products sold. 


Research objectives include exploring new uses for agricultural and forestry resources. We're looking at use of residual or waste materials​ so food supply is not impacted. One example of WIST agricultural research is a collaborative project ​that seeks to extract a well-known health supplement additive, resveratrol, from Wisconsin-grown grapes. The Stevens Point Journal featured the project in this story June 13, 2015. Early research indicates the highest concentrations of resveratrol are in the canes, rachis and peduncles that support grape clusters, so the additive could be produced without use of the grape skin or juice. 


WIST awarded $500,000, three-year grant to work with potato and vegetable growers on new products

WIST is excited to be collaborating with Wisconsin potato and vegetable growers and processors on a new project, beginning March 2016, to explore new opportunities for revenue from residual materials are left from harvesting and processing operations. Read more about the project here.​