Murcia, November 28, 2024. First transformative 2B-BLUE laboratory in Spain: Boosting blue biotechnology in the Mediterranean organised by UMU and CTN.
On 28 November, the Pleiades building on the Espinardo campus of the University of Murcia hosted the first Transformative Lab (T-Lab) of the 2B-BLUE project, a European initiative under the InterregMed programme. Organised by the University of Murcia (UMU) and the Centre for Naval and Marine Technology (CTN). This event brought together different companies, researchers from the University of Murcia and managers from the maritime sector to initiate a fruitful dialogue between business needs and the innovative solutions that research can provide.
The Transformative Lab focused on identifying and discussing best practices to promote the use and development of Blue Biotechnology as a cornerstone for the establishment of a Blue Economy model in the Mediterranean region. This model, based on sustainability and innovation, aims to reconcile economic development with the preservation of the marine and coastal environment.
Highlights of the event
The day began with a welcome from the University of Murcia, followed by a presentation of the 2B-BLUE project by Mr. Jesús Argente, who outlined the concept of T-Labs and Demonstration Sites (DS). This theoretical framework provided a context for the importance of creating collaborative spaces between the business and academic sectors.
Showcasing best practices
A highlight of the event was the presentation of success stories and best practices in blue biotechnology by representatives of leading companies and organisations:
– Mediterranean Algae: Environmental bioremediation in ports using macroalgae and production of high value-added compounds, presented by Mr. Yago Sierras, co-founder and CEO.
– Odin Solutions: Development of intelligent solutions for aquaculture, presented by Mr. Miguel Ángel Zamora Izquierdo, co-founder of this spin-off.
– Avramar: Innovations in the automation of marine farms with the Intelligent Feeding Control Sensor (SICA), presented by Mr. Apostolis Sermentzelis, Head of Feeding.
– Grupo Ricardo Fuentes e Hijos: Application of DIGI SAFE CAGE, digital solutions for risk management in marine aquaculture infrastructures, presented by Mr. José María Donate, Marketing Director.
– Bioprocesia: Innovative solutions to improve the sustainability of the food system, presented by Ms. Guiomar Sánchez Carrión, CEO.
Collaboration and next steps
The event continued with an engaging brainstorming session moderated by Mr. José Manuel Antón from the Naval and Marine Technology Centre. Participants discussed the selection of best practices presented and proposed additional practices for implementation in the Spanish Blue Biotechnology Hub (BBHub). This session also provided an opportunity for participants to explore potential collaborations and synergies between the different stakeholders present.
The session concluded with the development of a set of conclusions and next steps that will serve as a roadmap to further strengthen the collaboration between companies and research centres within the 2B-BLUE project. Towards a more sustainable Mediterranean
The first Transformative Lab 2B-BLUE laid the foundations for a collaborative working model that promotes blue biotechnology as a key tool for sustainable development in the Mediterranean. This event demonstrated that collaboration between research and industry is essential to address current and future challenges of the Blue Economy.
The journey towards a more innovative and sustainable Mediterranean approach has just begun!
