Almudena Hospido

Almudena Hospido is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Santiago de Compostela. She holds a PhD in Chemical and Environmental Engineering (2005) and has been active in academia since 2013. Her research focuses on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), environmental footprints, and sustainability in water/wastewater systems and food industries. She led the ENERWATER project (2015–2018), which developed an energy efficiency methodology for wastewater treatment plants, recognized by CEN/TR 17614. She served as Vice-Rector for Internationalization (2015–2018) and CEO of Cursos Internacionales (2015–2018), contributing to the university’s strategic internationalization plan. She co-edits sections on wastewater management and circular economy in journals like the International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment.

Her research interests include energy efficiency in wastewater systems, climate change impacts on food production, and circular economy strategies. Notable projects include RURALtXA! (bioeconomy in mountain regions) and USABLE Packaging (sustainable bioplastics). She has 65+ peer-reviewed articles (H-index 37, 4,200+ citations) and supervised doctoral and master’s students in bioprocess engineering and sustainability.

Awards include the ENERWATER Project’s 2018 Best Energy Efficiency Award. Her work bridges academic research with industry applications, emphasizing environmental impact reduction and sustainable practices. Current projects address bio-based polymers from waste, saline wastewater management, and climate-resilient dairy systems.