The INNOAQUA project participated in the EXAQUA Workshop Session 1 – “Innovation and inspiration for algae aquaculture,” held on 30 October 2025 in Constanța, Romania. The event gathered leading experts, researchers, and industry stakeholders from across Europe and the Black Sea region to discuss pioneering research and innovative solutions shaping the future of algae aquaculture.
This first session of the EXAQUA Workshop provided a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing in the fast-growing field of algae aquaculture. Participants explored how scientific advances and sustainable technologies can address industry challenges while promoting circular and resource-efficient aquaculture systems.
The session featured insightful presentations by distinguished experts including David Bassett (EATiP), Jonas Blomme (Ghent University), and Hanna Böpple (NORCE Research). Their talks reflected the diversity of ongoing research across Europe and the importance of linking science, policy, and innovation for the ecological transition of the aquaculture sector.
Representing INNOAQUA, Dr. Hanna Böpple from project coordinator NORCE Research presented “Integrating innovative aquaculture systems: resource-efficient and circular solutions.” Her presentation focused on the project’s innovative approach to developing integrated aquaculture systems that combine sustainability, circularity, and technological innovation. Drawing from her expertise in sustainable biotechnology and microalgae cultivation, Dr. Böpple highlighted how the use of residual waste streams for microalgae production can reduce environmental impacts and create added value across the aquaculture value chain.
INNOAQUA aims to pave the way toward a sustainable and diversified EU in-land aquaculture industry by focusing on algae-based foods, ecological performance, circular economy principles, and digitalisation. Participation in EXAQUA underscored the project’s role in fostering collaboration, co-creation, and innovation between academia, industry, and policymakers.
