Technological advances. Criteria for innovation

The article describes the advances made over the last four years in both Spain and the European Union in the creation of tools for innovation such as the Technology Platforms. Civil engineering professionals perform an innovative activity and should take advantage of the opportunities offered by the new National R+D+i Plan and the EU's 7th Research Framework Programme. The author suggests that the meeting point between the common interest of the EU, Spain and our profession is one of competitiveness and that this may only be achieved through technological innovation. The article concludes by underlining criteria for innovation; sustainable development; increased competitiveness and knowledge generation and management. Innovation; Competitiveness; National R+D+i Plan.