The BeBlue project is testing a new technology for growing vegetables with the help of fish.
On September 26, 2024, the Area Science Park in Trieste hosted a significant event in the field of aquaponics: "Aquaponics, one year later: Review of techniques and new experiences". Organized by Shoreline soc. coop., the meeting marked a turning point for the sector, attracting experts, innovators, and potential producers from all over Italy and beyond.
The morning was a true tour de force of innovation and knowledge, characterized by presentations in Short Speech format, each lasting 4 minutes, including updates on the BeBlue project, recent innovations in aquaponics, several case studies of existing plants, and proposals for potential investors. Ca' Foscari University and the University of Ljubljana engaged the audience with surprising results from their aquaponic systems, demonstrating the extraordinary potential of salicornia in saltwater and microgreens in freshwater. KGZS and AGRARIA opened new horizons, illustrating how aquaponics could revolutionize aquaculture and agriculture in Slovenia.
Legacoop's intervention revealed the growing interest of Large-Scale Retail Distribution in aquaponics, heralding a true green revolution in the food sector driven by the race towards sustainability.Subsequently, various experts and entrepreneurs, already active or interested in the aquaponics market, presented their own case studies, some via teleconference and others in person, offering a concrete and varied overview of the practical applications of this technology and unveiling new opportunities for the future. This format of rapid presentations allowed for covering a wide range of topics in a concise and effective manner, which were then used as a basis for the afternoon session.
The event continued with discussion tables focused on 9 main themes:
· territory and plant location,
· promotion, communication, storytelling,
· complementary activities,
· product distribution and market niches,
· plant start-up,
· plant and methodological innovation,
· plants,
· plant species,
· fish species.
These sessions generated lively and constructive debates, fostering the exchange of best practices or even new management and market solutions, as a result of animated discussions between opposing positions. Further information can be obtained from the website www.ita-slo.eu/it/beblue and social media www.facebook.com/BeBlue.ITASLO
