Engaging stakeholders in safety and sustainability: An interview with Konstantina Koutsiara and Maria Kotzagianni (Hypertech)

Could you please tell us a bit about yourself?

Konstantina Koutsiara: I am an Applications Physicist with a master’s degree in Microsystems and Nanodevices from the National Technical University of Athens. My academic background has provided me with a strong foundation in physics and nanotechnology, particularly in the areas of advanced materials. Over the years, I have transitioned from research-focused roles into project management, where I now have the opportunity to apply my technical expertise to drive forward European research projects. In my current role as a Project Manager at Hypertech, I oversee research projects spanning sustainability, The Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence. I am particularly passionate about exploring how technology and innovation can contribute to sustainability and help address global challenges, which is why I’m excited to be part of the SUNRISE project.

Maria Kotzagianni: I am Maria Kotzagianni, PhD, a Senior EU Project Manager at Hypertech, where I lead and participate in research and innovation initiatives across multiple domains, including sustainability, digital transformation, circular economy and other. My academic journey began with a degree in Physics, followed by a Master’s degree and a PhD in Optics and Laser Diagnostics. I further expanded my expertise through two postdoctoral research fellowships at Cambridge University and ETH Zurich, where I worked as an experimentalist, applying laser and other optical diagnostic techniques to novel combustion systems, while participating in my first EU research and innovation projects. This experience sparked my interest in European projects, as I was drawn to their interdisciplinary teams and their true potential to create a meaningful, lasting impact on society. What excites me most in my current role is the opportunity to collaborate with exceptional professionals across diverse projects, exploring innovative solutions to address pressing societal challenges. Participating in the SUNRISE project is particularly rewarding, as it offers a unique chance to contribute to the transition toward sustainable practices in industry and urban environments.

“Through engagement activities, we aim to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world application. This work aligns closely with my deep concern for the environment and my solid commitment to sustainability.”

Maria Kotzagianni

What do you do to contribute to the objectives and development of SUNRISE?

Konstantina: In the SUNRISE project, we together with Maria serve as a Project Managers on behalf of Hypertech, leader of WP4 “Stakeholder engagement in developing and testing the IIAA”, overseeing the coordination of stakeholder engagement activities.

Our role focuses on ensuring that stakeholders from various sectors, including industry, academia, civil society, and public authorities, are effectively involved in the development of the envisioned Integrated Impact Assessment Approach (IIAA). In order to achieve this, we will organize and facilitate workshops and co-design sessions, collecting feedback from stakeholders, and helping integrate their insights into the development of the IIAA. Additionally, we will put emphasis on working closely with SUNRISE partners to convey the stakeholders’ feedback into the project’s developments, confirming that the IIAA aligns with the real-world needs of its users.

“Our ultimate goal is to ensure that the envisioned approach is both practical and impactful, addressing the key safety and sustainability challenges faced by stakeholders.”

Konstantina Koutsiara

What strategies are most effective in engaging stakeholders across diverse sectors, and how will you ensure their perspectives are meaningfully integrated into the project's goals and outcomes?

Konstantina: Engaging stakeholders from different sectors requires a multifaceted approach. I find that the most effective strategy is one that is flexible and adaptable to the unique needs of each stakeholder group. For example, in the SUNRISE project, we make use of a variety of engagement methods such as online surveys, interactive workshops, and the establishment of a virtual space, which fosters ongoing collaboration and feedback. To ensure that stakeholder perspectives are meaningfully integrated, it’s essential to create opportunities for active participation and co-creation throughout the project. This means collecting feedback and also actively involving stakeholders in the iterative development of the IIAA. This approach helps build trust and ensures that the final product truly addresses the diverse needs of the sectors involved. 

“To ensure that stakeholder perspectives are meaningfully integrated, it’s essential to create opportunities for active participation and co-creation throughout the project.”

Konstantina Koutsiara

Maria: Equally important is maintaining transparent communication and providing regular updates to stakeholders, demonstrating how their input directly shapes the project’s outcomes. This approach not only reinforces their sense of ownership but also fosters sustained engagement—both of which are essential for the long-term success and practical adoption of the IIAA.

An effective stakeholder engagement strategy also requires tailored communication that considers the unique knowledge levels and interests of each stakeholders’ group. By using clear straightforward language and presenting technical concepts in an accessible and relatable way, we can ensure that all stakeholders, regardless of their background or expertise, feel included and empowered to participate meaningfully.

Finally, we place a strong emphasis on storytelling, crafting narratives that resonate with stakeholders and keep their interests at the heart of our communications. By framing project developments in engaging, understandable terms, we not only capture attention but also build stronger connections to the project’s vision and goals. This combination of inclusivity, clarity, and storytelling bridges gaps in understanding and creates a collaborative environment where everyone is enabled to contribute effectively to the project’s success.

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If you have any questions, feel free to contact SUNRISE.