LJUBLJANA, 8 April 2025 – The Aquaponics Day – Innovative Agriculture professional event took place at the Biotechnical Faculty of the University of Ljubljana. It was organized as part of the cross-border BeBlue project (co-funded by the Interreg VI-A Italy–Slovenia programme) by Slovenian project partners: the Biotechnical Faculty UL, KGZS – Zavod Kranj, and KZ Agraria Koper.
The event aimed to present modern and sustainable approaches to food production through aquaponics – an innovative system that combines plant cultivation and fish farming in a circular, ecologically efficient environment.
Following the welcome address and an introduction to the BeBlue project, expert presentations were held, showcasing the key outcomes of the project work:
🔹 Mitja Kadoič (KGZS – Zavod Kranj) highlighted aquaponics as an opportunity for developing innovative, environmentally friendly agriculture.
🔹 Janja Rudolf (Biotechnical Faculty UL) presented the market analysis, assessment of commercial potential, and selection of the most promising products within the aquaponics system.
🔹 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ana Slatnar (BF UL) presented the results of testing new products, such as microgreens and the use of nanotechnology in food production.
🔹 The presentation of the best practice from Pomona Farm, where aquaponics is successfully integrated into a tourism offer, also attracted great interest.
Practical demonstration and tasting
During the break, participants had the opportunity to taste lettuce grown in an aquaponics system. Afterwards, they joined Dr. Ana Slatnar and Miha Štular (KGZS – Zavod Kranj) for a demonstration of the pilot system’s operation – both live and online. The livestream allowed remote participants to follow along in real-time.
A practical insight into the experiences gained during the pilot operation of the aquaponics facility was also presented, including the study of its economic viability and the development of a carbon footprint calculator. More detailed information on these tools will be available in upcoming BeBlue project webinars.
More than a presentation – a vision for the future
The Aquaponics Day in Ljubljana went beyond a technical showcase – it was a call to reflect on how, through knowledge, circular systems, and local solutions, we can build a more sustainable, high-quality, and self-sufficient food future.
