Sustainable Waste-to-Bioproducts Engineering Center
The Sustainable Waste-to-Bioproducts Engineering Center (SWBEC) develops innovative technologies that transform municipal, industrial, agricultural, and environmental resources into valuable bioproducts and recoverable materials. Through applied research, SWBEC advances solutions that protect the environment, improve public health, support workforce development, and contribute to economic growth.
SWBEC collaborates with industry, government agencies, municipalities, research institutions, and academic partners to develop technologies that address real-world challenges while providing hands-on research opportunities for students. Research activities range from laboratory-scale investigations to pilot-scale demonstrations that support sustainable resource management and environmental stewardship.
Bioproducts from Bioresources
Producing Bioproducts
Research explores the production of renewable fuels, bioplastics, specialty chemicals, agricultural products, and other sustainable materials that support environmental protection and economic growth.
By transforming waste streams into marketable products, SWBEC helps advance circular economy principles while creating opportunities for industry partnerships, workforce development, and student research experiences.
Center Projects
SWBEC conducts research focused on converting waste streams and resource-rich sources into valuable products and recoverable materials. Current areas of research include:
- Wastewater treatment for resource recovery
- Algae-based bioproduct production
- Bioplastics and biomaterials
- Biofertilizers and agricultural applications
- Food and agricultural waste utilization
- Renewable energy and biofuels
- Critical mineral recovery
- Water quality and environmental improvement
These partnerships create opportunities for student engagement while developing technologies that benefit communities throughout Utah, the Intermountain West, and beyond.