HomeNewsResearchUP Promotes Sustainability in the Dairy Industry with the 100K Strong in the Americas Project

UP Promotes Sustainability in the Dairy Industry with Project 100K Strong in the Americas

Mexico City, May 20, 2025.— The Universidad Panamericana consolidates its leadership in innovative research and international cooperation by being recognized in the 100K Strong in the Americas. The project "Sustainability in the Dairy Processing: A Tri-National Student Faculty Abroad Program,", led by Dr. Julieta Domínguez-Soberanes, was selected from among more than 50 proposals and received a grant of $25,000

This initiative addresses one of the food industry's greatest challenges: sustainability in dairy production, combining innovation, international collaboration, and climate action.

 

Innovation and Collaborative Learning for a Sustainable Future

Over the course of 12 weeks, students and academics from Mexico, Canada, and the United States participated in a collaborative online learning (COIL) program focused on sustainability in the dairy industry, covering topics such as milk chemistry, the circular bioeconomy, food microbiology, and food safety.

This project was solidified with the submission of a tri-national proposal in the area of energy and sustainability for the dairy industry.

Collaboration with prestigious institutions such as Université Laval (Canada) and California Polytechnic State University (United States) enriched the academic experience and strengthened international ties, allowing students to broaden their global perspective on the challenges facing the food industry.

In-person phase: industry engagement

As a key part of the program, the students traveled to Canada to visit milk processing companies and specialized research centers. These experiences allowed them to observe the implementation of sustainable practices in dairy production, from resource management to the production of final products. 

In addition, immersion in real-world environments reinforced their understanding of bioeconomic processes and the importance of innovation in the sector.

A legacy of climate action and ongoing collaboration

One of the greatest achievements of the program spearheaded by Dr. Domínguez-Soberanes is the development of collaboration protocols for climate action projects (CAPs) among participating institutions, as well as research in the fields of food science and technology, particularly in the dairy sector.  

These strategies will ensure a lasting impact, resulting in practical solutions to reduce the environmental footprint of the food industry.

UP's Commitment to Sustainable Research

The Universidad Panamericana reaffirms its commitment to excellent education, international collaboration, and applied research. This project not only consolidates its position as a leader in sustainability and innovation within the food industry, but also highlights the role of strategic partnerships in addressing global challenges.

Through initiatives like this, the Universidad Panamericana to train professionals capable of spearheading responsible and transformative solutions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Strategic partnerships for a more ethical and efficient industry

The success of this international collaboration was made possible by a dedicated team of top-tier researchers:

  • Dr. Guillaume Brisson and Dr. Julien Chamberland, researchers at INAF, Université Laval (Canada).
  • Dr. Julieta Domínguez-Soberanes, project leader and professor at the Universidad Panamericana Mexico).
  • Dr. Carmen Licon, professor and researcher, California Polytechnic State University (United States).

This project serves as a model of cooperation between Mexico, Canada, and the United States, where applied research, academic training, and sustainable innovation come together to address global challenges. 

Together, they have demonstrated that international academic cooperation can generate tangible solutions to the challenges related to food issues and climate and energy initiatives in the global food industry.

Learn more about the research projects at Universidad Panamericana : https://www.up.edu.mx/investigacion-noticias/