Caorle, June 10, 2024 - We are pleased to announce the launch of the "Blue Crab Lifecycle Understanding and Ecosystem Management in Europe" (BLUECRAB) project, co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg VI-A Italy-Slovenia 2021-2027 program. The project began on April 19, 2024, and will run until April 18, 2026.
The BLUECRAB project focuses on the extensive biodiversity of the coastal areas of the Northern Adriatic, which is a strategic asset for local economies. In recent years, however, these areas have faced an increasing environmental crisis due to the invasion of the blue crab, a particularly aggressive alien species that threatens local biodiversity and marine-related human activities.
Project Objectives and Approaches:
The primary goal of the BLUECRAB project is to protect the Northern Adriatic regions from the harmful impacts of the invasive blue crab. The project will develop an innovative monitoring system and selective fishing practices to help mitigate the negative effects of the blue crab. This effort will involve institutions, fishermen, and local communities, facilitating effective coordination and knowledge sharing between Italy and Slovenia.
The project aims to establish a permanent observatory for scientific and economic studies to monitor and mitigate the harmful effects of the blue crab. Additionally, a cross-border strategy and two action plans will be developed and tested through pilot activities: systematic monitoring of the blue crab spread using applications and IT tools, and implementing selective fishing practices to control the population.
Long-Term Effects:
The development of these solutions and the resulting outcomes will have long-term positive effects for fishermen and local communities currently most affected by the blue crab invasion. Furthermore, the project will promote sustainable management of marine resources and biodiversity protection, contributing to improved economic and environmental conditions in the region.
Project Partners:
The BLUECRAB project establishes a cross-border partnership that includes various organizations, such as:
- Confcooperative Unione Regionale del Veneto (lead partner)
- Federazione Provinciale Coldiretti Venezia
- Università degli Studi di Trieste
- National Institute of Biology
- Institute for Ichthyological and Ecological Research
- Municipality of Koper - Comune città di Capodistria (responsible partner for communication)
First Working Meeting:
On Monday, June 10, 2024, the first working meeting of the project was held in Caorle. Representatives from Confcooperative Unione Regionale del Veneto and project partners gathered to discuss the initial activities and plans for project implementation.
The BLUECRAB project represents an exceptional opportunity to protect and preserve the biodiversity of the Northern Adriatic while supporting local economic activities related to the sea. Through innovative approaches, digitalization, and sustainable fishing, the project aims to contribute to long-term environmental protection and economic enhancement in the region.
