Securing a notable achievement, for the first time, in the prestigious LIRA Program 2025, Dr. Georges Rammouz, Associate Professor and Dean of Research at the American University of Technology (AUT), has been awarded a prestigious grant under the 18th edition (2025) program. The winning project, titled “Evaluation of Conventional, Biodegradable, and Sustainable Hemp Fibre,” (ID: 15039) is a collaborative effort with the Faculty of Engineering at the Lebanese University, represented by Engineer Klara Taleb, and AUT alumnus Elie Kassis.
This project plays a vital role in promoting environmentally responsible materials. By comparing conventional fibers with biodegradable hemp alternatives, it addresses the growing need for sustainable solutions in industry. Hemp fibres offer numerous advantages, including renewability, low environmental impact, and biodegradability. Evaluating its performance and feasibility supports innovation in green manufacturing and product design. This research contributes to the global shift toward a circular economy and reinforces the importance of sustainable material science.
This award recognizes the innovative and impactful nature of the project, which explores the potential of hemp fibre as a sustainable alternative in various industrial applications. The research stands out for its technical novelty, environmental relevance and thus a potential for industrial implementation
The LIRA 18th edition (2025) jury consisted of 15 independent experts from the industry. All shortlisted teams received individual certificates, with additional certificates awarded to the winning teams. The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including the Minister of Industry, Mr. Joe Issa Al-Khoury; the President of the Association of Lebanese Industrialists, Mr. Salim Zeeni; Berytech COO, Mr. Maroun Chammas; Head of the IRALEB Executive Board, Engineer Ziad Chammas; and LIRA Executive Director, Mrs. Fabienne Balaa. The President of the American University of Technology, Professor Chafik Mokbel, also participated, along with other university presidents, vice presidents, and deans from prominent Lebanese institutions. The jury assessed projects based on their technical innovation, feasibility, and potential for industrial application. This recognition highlights not only the project’s innovation and real-world relevance but also our Faculty of Engineering’s sustained leadership in industry-driven research.
Dr. Rammouz’s accomplishment in the LIRA competition—funded by the European Union through Lebanon Innovate—is just one illustration of our broader achievements.
Across all domains, we are steadily reinforcing our university’s recognition as a premier institution for excellence in education, cutting-edge design and innovation, impactful research, sustainability, and robust university–industry partnerships.
