The Future Cleantech Architects (FCA) is a science-based, non-profit think tank based in Germany that is committed to developing innovative technologies to drastically reduce industrial greenhouse gas emissions. The focus is on the major polluters in the construction industry, aviation and shipping, as well as on the development of future energy systems.

"The Future Cleantech Architects manage to communicate even really difficult technological challenges and suitable solutions to key decision-makers in an understandable way. In this way, these solutions can also become effective in politics so that possible technical solutions are also utilised. This is where the Future Cleantech Architects complement our university work in the most fruitful way. It is also great for us as University of Wuppertal to now have another partnership in Remscheid," explains University Rector Prof Dr Birgitta Wolff .

The solutions are communicated using various formats: For example, through information events at the FCA branch in Brussels or as part of the annual Future Cleantech Festival in Remscheid. The international elite in the fields of energy and climate protection regularly present themselves at the festival - from successful start-ups to representatives of the European Commission and UN organisations. The fact that the FCA employees come from eleven different nations and are present at six European locations also demonstrates that this is a collaboration with an international dimension.

The main aims of the collaboration are to impart expert knowledge, supplement the university's teaching programme, carry out joint research projects, apply scientific findings in practice and acquire funding.

FCA Managing Director Dr Peter Schniering emphasises: "Collaborating with a research-strong university like the University of Wuppertal helps us to develop highly innovative climate protection technologies for the most difficult industrial applications. The combination of scientific excellence and practical relevance to heavy industry is of particular benefit to us here." By initiating high-ranking research consortia, the organisation has already repeatedly drawn attention to itself - and the importance of the cause - in specialist circles.

As an affiliated institute, the Future Cleantech Architects strengthen the visibility of the BUW in Remscheid. Remscheid's Lord Mayor Burkard Mast-Weisz is also pleased about this: "The cooperation between the BUW and the FCA is making a special contribution to intensifying the good relations between the university and the city. Climate protection concerns us all! I am convinced that by joining forces from Remscheid, we can deliver innovative ideas that not only contribute to rethinking, but also to technical feasibility."

The agreement will initially run for five years. If the positive expectations are confirmed after four years in a joint evaluation, the collaboration will be automatically extended for a further five years.