The SAFE–AWARE–INNOAQUA Summer School 2026 continued on 22 June with its second session,“Innovations II – Circular Ingredients, Sludge Valorisation and Integrated Production Systems”. Bringing together participants from across the aquaculture and research communities, the session explored innovative approaches linking aquaculture, aquafeeds, insects, algae and integrated production systems.
Chaired by Dorinde Kleinegris (NORCE Research, INNOAQUA coordinator), the session featured presentations on circular ingredients in aquafeeds, black soldier fly applications in aquaponics, sludge valorisation for algae cultivation, biofertiliser production, and integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems.
A strong INNOAQUA presence was reflected throughout the programme. Dorinde Kleinegris and Sandra Balsells (Leitat) presented ongoing INNOAQUA research on transforming aquaculture sludge into nutrient sources for microalgae and macroalgae cultivation, demonstrating how side streams from aquaculture can be reintegrated into the production cycle rather than discarded.
The session also featured Rui Pereira from the Centre for Innovation in Macroalgae (INNOAQUA), who presented the SMART-IMTA concept, a seaweed and sole integrated production system combining real-time monitoring and automation to improve productivity while making better use of available resources.
Additional contributions from Alex Wan (University of Galway, SAFE), Elena Mente (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AWARE) and Hallstein Baarset (Waister, SAFE) explored circular ingredients in aquafeeds, the use of black soldier fly larvae in aquaponic systems, and the conversion of aquaculture sludge into biofertilisers. Together, the presentations highlighted practical ways to create value from resources traditionally considered waste.
The session attracted more than 100 participants from across the aquaculture, research and innovation communities, generating lively discussions throughout the event. For INNOAQUA, it provided an excellent opportunity to showcase ongoing work, while exchanging knowledge with stakeholders interested in circular solutions for the sector.
Missed the session?
If you were unable to attend live, you can still catch up on the presentations and discussions.
👉 Watch the Session 2 recording:
