UEL Celebrates Recognition at Design Awards

The Design Intelligence Awards, a global event that celebrates innovation at the intersection of design and technology, received over 8,000 submissions from 47 countries in 2024. UEL’s LUMEID and Sugarcrete® projects stood out among the top 39 winners, further establishing UEL’s growing influence in the global research community. These awards highlight the university’s commitment to addressing global challenges, particularly in sustainability and energy efficiency.

Professor Amanda Broderick, UEL Vice-Chancellor and President, said, 

These prestigious accolades highlight the exceptional creativity and impact of our researchers at the University of East London. LUMEID and Sugarcrete® showcase how innovation rooted in sustainability can address some of the most pressing global challenges while inspiring new possibilities across industries.

The projects reflect our Vision 2028 ambition to not only innovate but also to ensure that our breakthroughs resonate globally, empowering the communities we serve and driving meaningful change. Congratulations to Dr Baig and the Sustainability Research Institute team for their outstanding work and for placing UEL even more firmly at the forefront of sustainable solutions. We are determined to lead the way in fostering a climate-resilient future through groundbreaking research, collaboration, and the empowerment of emerging talent.

Professor David Tann, Vice Provost (Technology) and Executive Dean of the School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering at UEL, expressed his pride in these achievements, saying, “These awards reflect the groundbreaking research and innovation at UEL. Dr Baig’s LUMEID project and the Sugarcrete® initiative exemplify our commitment to sustainability and addressing global challenges. I’m incredibly proud of our teams for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. 

“As part of our Vision 2028, UEL is committed to becoming a leader in the local and global climate change-responsive transition, aiming to achieve net-zero carbon status. We are taking a holistic view of sustainability, embedding its principles into all aspects of university life and activities. These projects, which align with our Sustainability Policy, are a clear demonstration of UEL’s dedication to creating impactful, sustainable solutions for the future.”

LUMEID: Merging sustainability and wearable technology

Dr Baig’s LUMEID project combines 3D printing and solar technology to create eco-friendly, customisable garments that can charge devices on the go. LUMEID represents a bold leap in sustainable design, blending advanced technology and creativity to tackle contemporary challenges. The project redefines wearable technology by offering a sustainable solution that reduces material waste through on-demand 3D printing, while also meeting modern consumer demands for functionality and style.

By merging fashion with renewable energy, LUMEID offers a unique product that not only provides a functional solution for charging devices but also promotes eco-consciousness. Dr Baig said, “LUMEID represents a leap in sustainable design, blending technology and creativity to address modern challenges. Winning the DIA 2024 award fuels my drive to innovate further.”

The recognition of LUMEID at the DIA is a significant achievement for UEL, highlighting its leadership in the field of green technologies. The award reflects the university’s commitment to supporting emerging talent and fostering impactful research that addresses global sustainability issues.

Sugarcrete®: A game-changer for the construction industry

Sugarcrete®, developed by the team at UEL’s Sustainable Research Institute (SRI), offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional concrete. This innovative material uses sugar as a primary component, drastically reducing the environmental impact of construction. The construction industry is one of the most carbon-intensive sectors globally.

Sugarcrete® presents a groundbreaking solution that can significantly reduce carbon emissions and contribute to more sustainable building practices.

The project’s Honourable Mention Award at the DIA further underscores its potential to transform the construction industry. As the demand for environmentally friendly solutions in construction grows, Sugarcrete® sets a new standard in the development of green materials.

UEL also recently won the Knowledge Exchange/Transfer Initiative of the Year award at the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) Awards for its development of Sugarcrete®. The project has continued to gain international recognition, with partnerships in India and over twenty countries. The judges highlighted UEL’s open-access approach, which is essential to its global impact. 

The recognition of both LUMEID and Sugarcrete® at the 2024 Design Intelligence Awards highlights UEL’s Vision 2028, which prioritises sustainability, innovation, and the development of the next generation of researchers and innovators. The university’s commitment to addressing global challenges is shaping the future of industries such as construction, technology, and fashion.

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