MEDITE SMARTPLY, the market-leading manufacturer of sustainable wood-based panels, has proudly announced its sponsorship of the Belmount roundabout in South Kilkenny, Ireland. This initiative aligns with the company’s strong commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.
The 58-metre diameter roundabout has been thoughtfully developed to feature a mini forest and meadow area, planted with native Irish flora. This not only enhances the natural beauty of the location but also supports local wildlife and promotes ecological diversity.
As part of the sponsorship, MEDITE SMARTPLY has installed four custom-designed "bug hotels" within the roundabout. These structures provide safe habitats for a variety of insect species, contributing to a balanced and thriving local ecosystem.
The bug hotels were constructed using MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME, a high-performance, durable MDF panel known for its exceptional longevity, offering up to 50 years of durability above ground and 25 years in ground. The construction was carried out in collaboration with students from Technological University Dublin, offering an educational opportunity that combined sustainability, design, and practical skills.
Speaking on the project, Joseph Little, Head of Construction for TU Dublin, explained “this collaboration offered our students a unique opportunity to apply sustainable construction principles in a real-world context. Working with MEDITE SMARTPLY and using MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME allowed them to engage with innovative, long-lasting materials while contributing to a meaningful environmental initiative.”
About Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)
Creating a Better World Together – TU Dublin is Ireland’s first Technological University and Dublin’s second-largest university, with 28,000 students across five campuses in Grangegorman, Blanchardstown, Tallaght, Bolton Street, and Aungier Street. TU Dublin is a national leader in Architecture, Engineering and Construction education, combining academic excellence with real-world application through a practice-based, employer-engaged model of learning.
At TU Dublin, education goes beyond the classroom. Through deep collaboration with over 800 industry partners, students benefit from co-designed programmes, live projects, internships, apprenticeships, and authentic, work-focused learning environments. This hands-on approach empowers students with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to thrive in a dynamic, global workforce.
Our distinguished researchers and innovators are pioneers in science and technology discovery, play active roles in informing policy and standards, and contribute to the creative life of Ireland. Our award-winning technology transfer and business incubation activity has delivered over 400 new sustainable businesses with an economic value of almost €700 million.
TU Dublin is also a global sustainability leader. Its strategic commitment to inclusive, future-focused education and research earned it a Gold STARS® accreditation from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) and a global ranking of 17th out of nearly 600 institutions worldwide.
With an international outlook, we welcome students and staff from around the world, while our strong international partnerships provide opportunities for student and staff exchange programmes, major cross-collaboration research projects, and employment opportunities. With over 7,000 graduates each year, TU Dublin is shaping a better world through collaborative education, cutting-edge research, and meaningful community engagement.
Go Beyond Learning. https://www.tudublin.ie