Acquaculture Observatory by Clust-ER Agri-food

The Aquaculture Observatory aims to relaunch and strengthen a collaborative regional platform dedicated to data collection, knowledge sharing, and innovation across the aquaculture sector. Building on the work of the 2022 “Aquaculture Focus Group,” which brought together researchers, companies, public authorities, and consumer organizations to identify key challenges and technological priorities, the initiative proposes to formalize this network as a regional “Innovation Lab” for the Blue Economy. The Observatory will support integrated monitoring of production activities, promote the exchange of scientific results, and foster joint action on critical issues such as seed availability for shellfish farming, diversification of species, valorization of products and by-products, and the management of invasive species like the blue crab. Expected impacts include accelerating the adoption of innovative solutions, enhancing skills and training along the aquaculture value chain, and reinforcing the link between research, enterprises, and regional policy. Key risks (such as the lack of a shared strategic vision or limited coordination among diverse actors) will be mitigated through the Cluster Agroalimentare’s role as a multi-actor facilitator. The Observatory will involve universities, research centers, aquaculture and agri-tech companies, cooperatives, consumer associations, and public administrations, including partners from other Italian regions, ensuring a broad and dynamic network capable of driving sustainable growth and technological advancement in Emilia-Romagna’s aquaculture sector.