The final meeting provided the ten 1st Additional Call projects with an opportunity to showcase their completed work. The discussions also explored future funding opportunities, the scaling of innovations, and the commercialisation of sustainable solutions.
The meeting in Brussels celebrated the achievements of the BlueBio 1st Additional Call projects while also laying the foundation for future collaborations to further harness aquatic bioresources. JPI Oceans reaffirmed its commitment to supporting these projects, ensuring that the legacy of the BlueBio Cofund continues beyond its immediate outcomes.
Several key takeaways emerged from the two-day gathering, including:
Innovative Solutions
The projects addressed some of the most pressing issues in the blue bioeconomy sector, such as the sustainable cultivation of microalgae, new approaches to fish feed production, and methods for waste valorisation. These innovations aim for a more resource-efficient and sustainable aquatic industry.
Sustainable Bioproduct Development
A key focus of the meeting was the development of sustainable bioproducts, with many projects exploring the use of by-products from aquaculture and fisheries. The importance of scaling these innovations to bring them to market was highlighted, with a strong emphasis on minimising environmental impacts.
Science Communication as a Key Driver
Effective communication is essential to maximising research impact and fostering both societal understanding and industry support for sustainable practices. Accordingly, the JPI Oceans communication team led a session centred on strategies for engaging industry and policymakers to ensure the broader dissemination of the BlueBio projects. The session included practical exercises, offering participants hands-on experience with science communication best practices.
Further project information
The 1st Additional Call counted the participation of 14 partners from 13 countries, including Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. Under this call, BlueBio funded 10 projects. For more information, find all projects linked below.