The Polytechnic University of Marche (UNIVPM) played a leading role in the parliamentary event “Towards a Sustainable and Competitive Mediterranean Fisheries: Governance and the European Blue Deal”, promoted by Federpesca and hosted at the European Parliament in Brussels. The University was represented by Prof. Ike Olivotto and Prof. Giorgia Gioacchini, recognized experts in European research on aquaculture, sustainability, and the Blue Economy.
During his speech, Prof. Ike Olivotto highlighted the crucial role of research and innovation in driving the transition towards more sustainable aquaculture. Presenting some of the major European projects coordinated or supported by UNIVPM – including SBEP AlFunFeed – he illustrated concrete results and future perspectives for reducing environmental impact, optimizing production systems, and introducing smart technologies to support industry operators.
Addressing institutional representatives, Olivotto emphasized the need to establish a structured and long-lasting dialogue between research, industry, and policy, essential to accelerate technology transfer and make solutions developed in national and international projects economically sustainable. He also highlighted the importance of Mediterranean cooperation to tackle common challenges such as climate change, competitiveness, and the quality of fishery products.
The event brought together representatives from the European Parliament, the European Commission, the private sector, and research institutions, underlining the importance of integrating scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and forward-looking policies to ensure environmental, social, and economic sustainability in the sector.
Thanks to the contribution of its faculty and its involvement in internationally relevant projects, the Polytechnic University of Marche confirms itself as a strategic partner and a scientific reference point in shaping policies and strategies for the future of Mediterranean fisheries and aquaculture, fully aligned with the objectives of the European Blue Economy.
