Most Europeans still see microalgae as a niche “superfood” trend. Yet, this tiny powerhouse holds immense potential for sustainable food systems, bio-based materials, and aquaculture innovation. That’s where PEDAL Consulting steps in. As a key partner in the EU-funded INNOAQUA project, we lead strategic communication, dissemination, and exploitation efforts. Innovation shouldn’t stay in the lab but reach people, policies, and markets across Europe.
Microalgae: High Potential, Low Awareness
Despite their proven benefits, microalgae remain unfamiliar to most consumers. Known mainly in vegan and health-conscious circles, species like spirulina and chlorella are often linked to supplements or smoothies. Few people understand how they’re farmed, processed, or used in areas such as fish feed, bioplastics, or functional foods.
While some awareness exists—particularly among scientists and sustainability advocates—the general public lacks familiarity. Factors like unfamiliar taste, lack of culinary tradition, and low visibility in mainstream media keep microalgae off most people’s food radar.
Bridging Innovation and Society
At PEDAL Consulting, our mission is to close this awareness gap. We ensure that INNOAQUA’s outcomes go beyond research & development. In cooperation with ECOIMAGINATION, A4F and EAS, we join efforts in reaching real-world stakeholders—citizens, educators, industry actors, and policymakers.
Our communication strategy makes aquaculture innovation accessible and relatable. Through storytelling, tailored campaigns, and clear messaging, we help the public understand why sustainable aquaculture matters—and how microalgae fit into a healthier, more sustainable future.
From Awareness to Action: Knowledge Sharing and Uptake
We support knowledge transfer by designing dissemination activities that reach the right audiences. Together with project partners, we produce accessible materials and promote INNOAQUA insights at scientific and industry events. This ensures that project results are not just published but used—inspiring new research, commercial uptake, and evidence-based policy.
Shaping the Future with Exploitation Strategy
Turning innovation into action means identifying what’s market-ready. We collaborate with partners to:
- map Key Exploitable Results,
- assess commercial potential,
- chart pathways to real-world application—be it through product development, standards, or policy.
This work is critical to unlocking long-term value and ensuring the sustainability of INNOAQUA’s innovations.
Building Bridges Across Europe’s Innovation Landscape
From the start, we’ve focused on strategic collaboration. We have been:
- engaging with the HORIZON4PROTEIN cluster (VALPRO PATH, LIKE-A-PRO, GIANT LEAPS, FEASTS, and INNOAQUA),
- co-creating new aquaculture clusters (e.g. IGNITION, GRINNAQUA, cure4Aqua, Locality, EUAqua),
- aligning with networks like Foodleap and EATIP.
These partnerships embed INNOAQUA into the broader EU innovation ecosystem and support synergies for lasting impact.
Moving Forward: From Project to Real-World Impact
Our commitment to communication, dissemination, exploitation, and cooperation is about more than visibility. It’s about making innovation actionable—so that microalgae and sustainable aquaculture reach those who can benefit most.
At PEDAL Consulting, we’re proud to help shape the future of food. One story, one connection, and one innovation at a time.
Author: Yuliya Kharchenko, PEDAL Consulting | Written for INNOAQUA (website)
