HZ Discovery Café | How do you build a healthy and sustainable environment?

The second HZ Discovery Café of the 2025–2026 academic year will take place on Tuesday, 18 November, in the Impact Lab of the HZ Tower in Vlissingen. Researcher Lennart Zoeter and professor Frank Huijben will tell you all about biobased construction.

In his talk, Frank will clearly explain why circular building with natural materials such as wood, clay, hemp and flax is essential for a healthier world. According to him, it should not only be about costs, but about the value we create together: 'Health for people and nature'.

After Frank, Lennart and Fran will take the stage. Among other things, they are conducting research into mycelium: an underground network of fungal threads best described as a natural binding agent that holds biomass together. The material is popular because of its environmentally friendly properties, its soft, tactile appearance, and the versatile ways it can be used.

Myceola

In the ongoing Myceola project, Lennart is examining what happens to the product after it has been used. “How can we extend the lifespan of mycelium-based materials and prevent waste at the end of their life cycle? These are the questions we aim to answer.”

Both Frank and Lennart work under the umbrella of MNEXT, a partnership between HZ University of Applied Sciences and Avans University of Applied Sciences.

Friendly and informal

At each Discovery Café, two researchers take to the stage. In a friendly, informal atmosphere, they talk about their passion for their work, highlight a specific research project, or share their views on current developments. They also engage in conversation with the audience. The Café is open to anyone interested in research in and for the region, and the programme is announced well in advance.