Advancing Blue Economy and Biotechnology in the Adriatic-Ionian Region
On March 17th 2026 the Albanian Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development organized a regional roundtable workshop on Blue Economy and Blue Biotechnologies in Tirana, Albania. This brought together experts and stakeholders from across the Adriatic and Ionian region, including Albania, Greece, Italy, Slovenia and Spain. Participants represented research institutions, public authorities, private companies, and non-governmental organizations, all working towards a more sustainable use of marine resources.
The event highlighted the 2B-BLUE project, presented by Jesús Enrique Argente García (University of Murcia, Spain), which aims to overcome barriers in blue technology through collaboration, pilot projects, and knowledge sharing across Mediterranean countries. Massimiliano Pinat (CNR-IRBIM, Italy) explained the growing importance of blue biotechnology, emphasizing its potential to support industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and environmental services by using marine biodiversity.
Speakers also shared practical examples from pilot projects across the region. These included sustainable aquaculture systems in Albania, Greece and Slovenia, and regenerative aquaculture approaches in Italy. Country presentations further demonstrated how each nation is applying innovative solutions to local environmental and economic challenges.
The workshop concluded with a focus on future cooperation. Participants agreed on the importance of sharing technical methods, improving collaboration between stakeholders and developing a regional roadmap for blue biotechnologies. This roadmap aims to guide sustainable growth in the sector and strengthen connections between research and industry across the Mediterranean.
Photos: ACEPSD
