It was a weekend full of sounds—and even ultrasounds. It was filled with positive energy—and even renewable energy. This year’s Olsztyn Green Festival proved once again that it can be a space not only for music, but also for science, technology, and innovation. On an August weekend by Lake Ukiel, the Łukasiewicz Research Network demonstrated that science developed in laboratories is not only interesting but also very useful.
Łukasiewicz’s presence at one of Poland’s largest music festivals may have surprised some, but for us it was yet another example of fulfilling science’s social responsibility. Instead of laboratories and conference rooms, our scientists and engineers met with the public and users of science in an informal, festival-like atmosphere. They demonstrated that modern technologies are closely tied to everyday life and address societal needs.
Five Łukasiewicz Institutes in One Location
In the special Łukasiewicz zone, located right next to one of the festival’s three stages, attendees had the opportunity to meet experts from five institutes: Łukasiewicz – ITR, Łukasiewicz – PIAP, Łukasiewicz – IEL, Łukasiewicz–PORT, and Łukasiewicz–ICiMB. Over the course of three days (August 14–16), they drew visitors with demonstrations, experiments, and presentations of technologies developed within the Network. The experts answered questions about their research and encouraged visitors to discover science through hands-on experience. Above all, however, they allowed children, teenagers, and adults alike to touch, try, observe, experiment, and play. This approach also demonstrated that behind the solutions used in industry, energy, environmental protection, and safety are real people: researchers, designers, and engineers.
Technologies related to security and robotics presented by Łukasiewicz – PIAP attracted particular interest. Festival attendees had the opportunity to learn more about solutions developed to protect people and support security services. The PIAP PATROL robot, used for operations in potentially dangerous locations, including war zones, drew enormous interest.
From Ultrasound to Drones
Meanwhile, experts from Łukasiewicz – ITR, who were present as a four-person team throughout the three days of the festival, showcased ultrasonic technologies and solutions in the field of electronics design and assembly. Visitors had the opportunity to learn about the applications of ultrasound and modern printed circuit boards, as well as how advanced electronic devices used in various sectors of the economy are manufactured. And while they were there, they could… control a mini-tank and drive straight to their destination.
The participation of the Łukasiewicz Institutes—IEL, ICiMB, and PORT—allowed for the presentation of a broad spectrum of activities carried out by the Łukasiewicz Research Network: from modern materials and energy, through technologies supporting industrial transformation, to advanced research and innovations focused on sustainable development. Both children and adults now know how the blades of large wind turbines can be recycled, how heavy the ballistic insert in a bulletproof vest is, and what glitter looks like under a microscope. As a result, the booth has become a space for dialogue between science and society, showcasing the diversity of expertise within our research network.
Scientists on Stage, Too
Another important aspect of Łukasiewicz’s participation was the discussions held as part of the “Good Energy Meeting Zone,” which for years has served as a forum for discussing challenges related to the environment, technology, and the future of society. During this year’s edition, representatives from Łukasiewicz–PIAP, Łukasiewicz–ILOT, and Łukasiewicz–ITECH participated in the panels. The experts shared their knowledge and experience, highlighting the role of science in ensuring safety and advancing modern technologies. For years, the zone itself has served as a meeting place for experts, scientists, journalists, and festival attendees interested in the topics of sustainable development and innovation. The panel discussions were recorded and will soon be available on YouTube.
Science Closer to the People
The Łukasiewicz Research Network’s presence at the Olsztyn Green Festival 2026 demonstrated that science outreach can effectively extend beyond the traditional framework of industry events. Festivalgoers visiting the Łukasiewicz zone were not only able to see cutting-edge technologies but also witness firsthand how science serves us in our daily lives. It is precisely these kinds of direct encounters that build trust in science, inspire young people to pursue a career in science, and show that Polish innovations are being created right here and now—thanks in part to the work of experts from the Łukasiewicz Research Network.
