What if restaurant waste could become a valuable biomaterial? Or algae could help clean polluted water? These were some of the blue biotechnology solutions showcased by 2B-BLUE at Aquaculture Europe 2026, held in Ljubljana from September 29th to October 1st. The event brought together the aquaculture community from across Europe and beyond, providing an excellent opportunity to present the project’s work and connect with new audiences.
The National Institute of Biology (NIB) demonstrated how discarded scampi shells from restaurants can be collected, washed, dried and processed to extract chitin, an important biomaterial with a wide range of potential applications. Meanwhile, Mediterranean Algae, the Spanish 2B-BLUE pilot, presented its innovative modular system for regenerating port waters by growing algae. The technology attracted interest from other companies working on water treatment and tank systems. AlgEn, the Slovenian pilot, also presented its work with Spirulina, highlighting its potential as a food ingredient and health product. Their production systems, especially sensors attracted a lot attention.
Beyond showcasing these solutions, the event provided valuable opportunities to meet researchers, businesses and other aquaculture professionals, exchange ideas and present 2B-BLUE to the wider blue biotechnology community.
Through this outreach, 2B-BLUE continues to build connections and raise awareness of practical blue biotechnology solutions for a more sustainable Mediterranean blue economy.
