The South Baltic SMEs Advancing Beyond Borders (SMEBeyond) project has officially been launched, aiming to change the landscape for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the South Baltic Region regarding going international. Focusing on businesses in the green and blue sectors, the project is designed to equip them with the necessary tools, insights, and support to break into international markets, driving economic growth and enhancing global competitiveness.
Overcoming barriers to internationalization
A key challenge faced by SMEs in the South Baltic Region is expanding beyond borders. Currently, only 34% of SMEs in the region are engaged in international business, with a mere 7% venturing into non-EU markets. Obstacles such as financial limitations, limited market intelligence, and complex regulatory frameworks often challenge their efforts.
“SMEBeyond is an initiative that will provide SMEs in the South Baltic Region with the necessary support to overcome the barriers of internationalization. By leveraging the power of collaborative networks and innovative methodologies, we aim to create a robust, competitive business ecosystem” says Lais Valenca, Project Manager, Clean.
The primary objective of SMEBeyond is to empower SMEs in thematic areas such as renewable energy, sustainable urban development, water and waste management, food packaging, plasma technology, and maritime industries.
The project aims to shift the current paradigm by increasing the number of SMEs engaging in international business, thereby enhancing regional economic vitality and global competitiveness.
Project goals and impact
- Current Engagement: Only 34% of SMEs in the South Baltic Region engage in international business, with just 7% reaching non-EU markets.
- Targeted Outcomes: The project aims to provide non-financial support to 18,000 enterprises and facilitate cooperation among 6,000 organizations.
- Economic Potential: The project is expected to significantly boost the regional economy and enhance global competitiveness by increasing the international presence of SMEs.
About SMEBeyond
SMEBeyond is co-funded by the Interreg South Baltic Program and has a total budget of €1,662,548.10. The project runs until June 2027 and provide SMEs with innovative methodologies, matchmaking opportunities, and policy advocacy to facilitate successful international ventures.
Clean, the Danish water and environmental cluster, is the project lead partner. The project is in partnership with BalticNet-PlasmaTec (Germany), Natureef Association (Poland), Mobile Heights (Sweden), Sustainable Business Hub (Sweden), and Klaipeda Science and Technology Park (Lithuania).
More about the project: SMEBeyond (South Baltic SMEs Advancing Beyond Borders).
The last Blue Supply Chains (BSC) project partner meeting is a wrap! While a more detailed write-up summarizing the workshops and discussions that happened in Klaipeda, Lithuania, last week, may be in the works, we would like to kick off our coverage of the event with something a little bit more “outdoorsy” and adventurous – a study trip to the BEGA terminal!
Founded in 1992, BEGA is Lithuania’s first private stevedoring company and one of the most modern stevedoring enterprises in Klaipeda’s port. The company provides cargo handling and a variety of other transport and logistics services, specializing in the handling of dry and liquid bulk products.
Given the terminal’s modern character, it is no wonder that BEGA is actively pursuing solutions that enable the decreasing of emissions during handling operations. Environmental consciousness and sustainability are the name of the game for the BSC partners, and so the participants of the partner meeting were thrilled to jump on the opportunity to experience the electrified shunting operations firsthand.
On track towards emissions cuts
The main hero of this story is BEGA’s e-locomotive, which operates on the railway network and was developed and custom-made according to the company’s specific requirements. The design itself is incredibly ingenious and pretty much oozes sustainability. BEGA’s staff invented a methodology, along with unique software, enabling them to bring second life to used car battery packs and electric engines. These are now used to power locomotives, allowing for a switch from diesel to electricity and a significant reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The shunting operations are conducted in short windows of activity for the locomotive, as it moves the waggons step by step to the loading/unloading spots. This translates to approx. 10 second activity windows with breaks for the loading and unloading of cargo. Coupled with a flat terminal layout (no steeps slopes or hard curves), it minimizes the maximum power requirements and makes it possible for the battery to last for up to 10 days.
Over half BEGA’s railway locomotives has been converted to electric robotic units, allowing for the majority of rail shunting operations at the company’s terminals to be conducted emission-free.
Why stop here?
The Port of Klaipeda and BEGA certainly do not plan to do so any time soon. Just earlier this year both companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), declaring their commitment to climate change mitigation. Green hydrogen is set to play a big role in this undertaking.
Following the example of other advanced ports, the Lithuanian port plans to introduce new fuels, green hydrogen being one of them. Included in the MoU is the aim for both companies to pool resources and knowledge to create a value chain for green hydrogen use.
But naturally, there must be a train somewhere in there as well, right? Correct! BEGA has already identified the potential for building a prototype hydrogen-powered locomotive using the experience they have accumulated while developing its e-powered counterpart.
The terminal in a nutshell
BEGA operates a number of specialized terminals, including the bulks import-export terminal, the agribulks terminal, the cement terminal and the liquid food products terminal.
Additional information:
- Total area: 30 ha
- The reserve area for logistical operations: 7 ha
- Bulk terminals cargo accumulation capacity: 800.000 tons
- Liquid reservoir capacity: 100.000 cubic meters
- The technical capacity of terminals: 8-10 mln tonnes per year
We would like to thank BEGA for this unique chance to get a glimpse of the inner working of their terminal in Klaipeda. It was a fantastic experience and opportunity to expand our understanding of the opportunities electricity can offer the port sector.
Ten partners from five countries collaborate in TETRAS to enhance the economic and environmental sustainability of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) in the Baltic Sea Region. Led by Klaipeda Science and Technology Park (KSTP) in Lithuania, this initiative leverages KSTP’s 20+ years of experience in innovation and green/blue technologies. Erika Zavackienė discusses KSTP’s role, their vision for RAS, and how their leadership and network are shaping the future of sustainable aquaculture.
TETRAS mission? To develop tools and standards to assess and monitor RAS and promote investment, implementation, and expansion of these production systems.
Today, let’s delve into the insights of Klaipeda Science and Technology Park.
Klaipėda, a key driver of Lithuania’s economy, stands out as an industrial and service powerhouse with its ice-free port and competitive free economic zone. The city’s Blue Growth 2030 vision is ambitious: to become a world-class blue economy hub, offering rapid solutions and being the best place to live, work, rest, and invest in the Baltic region. Renowned for its strong institutions specializing in marine sciences, health care, and engineering, Klaipėda boasts a high level of general education, making it a center of innovation and growth.
KSTP plays a pivotal role in this dynamic landscape. Established in 2002 through a partnership between Klaipėda University and the Ministry of Economy and Innovation, KSTP is a public institution and non-profit organization dedicated to fostering innovation. As a business support agency, KSTP prioritizes green and blue (marine) technologies, actively participating in international projects and coordinating partnerships and clusters. The park offers specialized services in business development, new product creation, and intellectual property protection, making it a cornerstone of regional progress.
KSTP’s commitment to advancing aquaculture is particularly noteworthy. Recognizing aquaculture as one of the fastest-growing sectors of the bioeconomy, KSTP has focused on developing innovative aquaculture practices to enhance sustainability in the Baltic Sea region. In 2018, KSTP established the Aquaculture Competence Center in close cooperation with Klaipėda University. This experimental base allows scientists to conduct various tests and research while transferring valuable knowledge to students. By embracing advanced technologies, KSTP aims to minimize the environmental impact of aquaculture and support the industry’s growth.
Join us as we explore Klaipėda’s vibrant community, KSTP’s pivotal role in promoting innovation, and their impactful involvement in sustainable aquaculture projects.
KSTP as part of the TETRAS project
Interviewee(s): Erika Zavackienė
What was your motivation to join TETRAS?
Having been involved in project activities for over 20 years, we have built a vast network of partners and like-minded individuals. In Lithuania, as in much of the Baltic Sea Region, recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) are stagnating. In Lithuania, only African catfish production is steadily growing, which increases a risk of creating a single-species RAS industry with its own set of challenges. Therefore, it is sensible to seek new RAS technologies and knowledge that could open up new business opportunities. Together with our partners, we developed the TETRAS project idea to promote competitive RAS solutions and support the RAS industry at both regional and local levels.
Can you describe your involvement in the project? What are your primary objectives within the project?
In TETRAS, KSTP serves as the Lead Partner, responsible for coordinating the entire project and contributing to the regional pilot on using geothermal water in RAS. Additionally, based on the results of the pilot implementation and evaluation activities, we prepare recommendations for decision-makers on transferable business opportunities.
What specific expertise or unique perspective does the KSTP brings to TETRAS?
The TETRAS project addresses a challenge common to regions across the Baltic Sea: how to harmonize economic development with social and environmental goals. KSTP acts as a bridge between science, business, and decision-makers. With its extensive experience, KSTP can assist businesses in developing their own RAS business plans and help public authorities create business support mechanisms and monitoring frameworks.
What do you consider the main challenges related to RAS implementation in the region?
The main challenges related to RAS implementation are the high initial and operational costs. Additionally, opening new business opportunities and models for innovative and energy-efficient aquaculture in the region poses a challenge. These challenges stem from a lack of demand for skilled personnel and high-quality competencies in the blue bioeconomy sector.
How do you see the RAS sector in Lithuania and the Baltic Sea Region in the next 5 to 10 years?
Continuous improvements in RAS technology are expected to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impacts. As the technology matures and proves its economic viability, more investments will flow into the RAS sector. Governments in the Baltic Sea Region are anticipated to implement favorable policies and regulations to support the growth of sustainable aquaculture. This might include subsidies, tax incentives, and streamlined licensing processes. Increased collaboration between research institutions, industry stakeholders, and governments will foster innovation. Joint efforts in research and development will lead to breakthroughs in RAS technology and practices. Overall, the future of the RAS sector in the Baltic Sea Region looks promising, with advancements in technology, supportive policies, and increasing market demand paving the way for its growth and sustainability.
What outcomes or impacts do you hope to achieve through the project?
Our goal is to increase interest in RAS, as we believe it is a highly efficient method of food production. With our experience and partnerships, we aim to help our region define standardized tools for municipalities to assess and monitor RAS applications and integrate RAS into regional development strategies. Our involvement seeks to foster innovation in RAS, share knowledge, and develop new business models that will expand the potential of the Baltic Sea Region.
Stay tuned for more information about the project and its partners!
The TETRAS project, co-funded by the Interreg BSR program, helps promote the transition to a green and resilient Baltic Sea region. TETRAS (Technology transfer for thriving recirculating aquaculture systems in the Baltic Sea Region) aims to solve common challenges of the Baltic Sea region – how to harmonize economic development with social and environmental protection goals.
Klaipeda Science and Technology Park together with DigiTechPort2030 project partners invites you to explore the various approaches to combating decarbonisation with the use of AI solutions during the DigiTechPort2030 project workshop. The workshop will take place on 5 September 2024 in Klaipėda (Lithuania), during the first day of the annual Baltic Ports Conference.
Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly present part of various industries, the maritime sector being no exception. Given the ambitious decarbonisation goals set by policymakers, the sector must utilise every tool at its disposal to achieve them.
Join your peers from various corners of the maritime transport industry for a practical deep dive into the challenges related to decarbonisation and how to overcome them with tools offered by AI technology.
This event is a part of the DigiTechPort2030 project, an initiative focused on improving knowledge and capacity for decarbonisation measures linked to digitalisation in Small and Medium Sized Ports in the South Baltic Area, co-financed by the South Baltic Programme 2021–2027 and European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Prior to the workshop, the registered participants will have the chance to pitch their ideas for topics to be tackled during the meeting, ensuring that the ensuing discussion is as relevant to their needs as possible. Secure your spot at the workshop and register now!
INVESTech aims to establish a transnational platform for Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in five European regions: Košice in Slovakia, Attica in Greece, Sofia in Bulgaria, Nicosia in Cyprus and Klaipeda in Lithuania.
ABOUT INVESTECH PROJECT
The INVESTech project aims to support the innovation potential of VET in partner countries by applying the Quintuple Helix framework – strengthening partnerships between academia, industry, public sector, civil society and natural environment. The project aims to:
– Create CoVEs in five European regions by incorporating the Quintuple Innovation Helix (Q2IH) Framework;
– Facilitate skills development and the use of innovative technology;
– Promote green transition and social inclusion;
– Provide opportunities for international collaboration and the
exchange of best practices.
The project involves 18 partners and 13 associate partners from five countries (Slovakia, Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria and Lithuania). INVESTech project will run for 4 years and the Technical University of Košice (Slovakia) is the project coordinator. The implementation of the project is carried out in cooperation between the Faculty of Economics and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Informatics.
THE KICK-OFF MEETING IN KOŠICE, SLOVAKIA
On April 24 and 25, 2024 the Technical University of Košice hosted the kick-off meeting in Košice, Slovakia. Over forty experts from five partner countries came together to set the stage for this groundbreaking initiative, poised to transform vocational education and training in the field of ICT. This unique collaboration aims to build a transnational platform that fosters cooperation between CoVEs. By bridging the gap between the business sector and educational institutions, the project seeks to ignite innovation, create dynamic skills ecosystems, and drive forward green transformation and social inclusion.
STUDY VISIT IN IT VALLEY
The goal of the INVESTech project study visits is to exchange best practices and enhance the skills of the participating staff. The first study visit, organized by IT VALLEY, took place on April 26, 2024, in Košice, Slovakia. This visit aimed to provide participants with new insights, opportunities to share their experiences, and to contribute to the development of more effective educational strategies. Participants were introduced to the activities and collaboration methods of Košice IT Valley within the Eastern Slovak region. They also had the chance to familiarize themselves with regional educational initiatives and compare them with their experiences in their own countries. The program included networking activities designed to facilitate the exchange of information and ideas among partners.
FIRST NATIONAL WORKSHOPS
The aim of the national workshops is to present the project and its objectives to the stakeholders from the Quintuple Helix, to gather their feedback and insights on their needs, challenges, and expectations regarding VET excellence in the ICT sector and to pique their interest in national CoVE establishment. These workshops will take place in each project country.
On May 24, 2025, the Technical University of Košice hosted the first national workshop in Slovakia. This event gathered project partners and stakeholders to discuss the future direction and focus areas of the Slovak CoVE. This meeting marked the initial step for successful collaboration between the business sector and educational institutions within the Košice region.
Other national workshops will follow:
- Bulgaria – July 2024
- Lithuania – August 2024
- Greece – September 2024
- Cyprus – Oct 2024
STAY TUNED
@investech-cove
PARTNERS
This project has been co-funded with support from the European Commission. This communication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein. Project Number: ERASMUS-EDU-2023-PEX-COVE-101143958
EU-CONEXUS has engaged in a partnership with the international port technology hackathon Portathon 2024. Empowering collaboration between science, maritime businesses and port authorities, and fostering an innovation ecosystem, Portathon offers new opportunities to apply a scientific approach towards smart urban coastal sustainability.
All EU-CONEXUS students and academic communities are invited to get involved in a 48-hour hackathon on 27-29 September in Klaipėda (Lithuania) or via an online platform. During an inspiring weekend, teams will develop innovative technological and digital solutions tackling sustainable ports, port cities and ecosystems, the maritime industry, logistics and energy challenges.
“Last year, our experience at Portathon was emotionally charged, thanks to the enthusiastic foreign students who shared their joy with us. We are delighted to share these feelings and values and hope to inspire any student to participate in this contest. Our young UTCB team presented innovative ideas for the challenges posed, and as a mentor, I had an outstanding experience offering guidance to all the participating teams. The contest was a wonderful opportunity for the team to surpass its limits in difficult situations, and we eagerly look forward to participating again this year, aiming for the prizes,” said PhD Ramona-Oana Flangea of the Technical University of Civil Engineering of Bucharest.
Initiated in Lithuania by the Klaipėda Science and Technology Park in collaboration with the Lithuanian Maritime Cluster and long-term partners, Portathon offers a unique space to establish cooperation with members the of European ports’ ecosystem, set up a base for the young talents‘ future careers. Furthermore, the most successful teams after previous Portathons were invited by port companies to finalise their ideas, create prototypes, or join the companies.
Participants are guided by an international team of mentors, joined each year by over 20 experts in a wide range of fields. One of them is Associate Professor Audrius Senulis, the Head of the Engineering Department at the Faculty of Marine Technologies and Natural Sciences of Klaipėda University, researcher at the Marine Research Institute of KU, who has mentored at every single Portathon.
“In the beginning, the hackathon was more about industry solutions but, through the years, it transformed and is now dedicated to creating solutions for port challenges. Also, it has evolved from a local event to an international one, attracting participants from all over the world. The global pandemic also had an impact – Portathon became a hybrid event, as more participants from abroad had a chance to get involved online. Though in my opinion, the true Portathon spirit emerges in the live event, when you see other teams, generate ideas, make contacts, sleep, eat, meet new friends, and propose the solutions,” Assoc. Prof. Senulis shared his extensive experience at numerous Portathons.
He added, that the topics also expanded, starting from more technical, and as the world and technologies constantly evolve, the challenges strive towards IT solutions, cybersecurity, and AI applications.
Every year, Portathon attracts around 100 innovators from the Baltic Sea countries, other European countries and even other continents. The organisers encourage both teams and individuals to register. According to them, the most successful teams are those formed of representatives with backgrounds in different sectors.
This year, Portathon is co-funded by the international Blue Supply Chains project and will seek to respond to the challenges of creating and developing sustainable supply chains in the Baltic Sea Region.
REGISTRATION
Participants & teams: https://bit.ly/Portathon2024Participants
Mentors: https://bit.ly/Portathon2024Mentors
Co-funded by the Interreg Baltic Sea Region Programme, the Blue Supply Chains project is helping to drive the transition towards a green and resilient Baltic Sea Region.
This article was prepared with the financial support of the Interreg Baltic Sea Region. Klaipėda Science and Technology Park is responsible for the content of the article. Under no circumstances can it be taken to reflect the opinion of the Programme.
Baltic Sea region countries – Denmark, Finland, Sweden and neighbouring Latvia – are already applying innovative ocean farming methods, growing seaweed, mussels, and oysters, harvesting marine crops, and experimenting with the development of marine products. Whether the Lithuanian coastline would be fit for the cultivation of species not only suitable for food but also beneficial to the recovery of marine ecosystems, was a topic of discussion in Klaipėda.
The initiative to engage Lithuania’s coastal communities in the wave of regenerative ocean farming has been taken by the Klaipėda Science and Technology Park, under the project “Cool Blue Baltic”. The first stage brought together scientists from Klaipėda University and the Marine Research Institute, fishermen entrepreneurs, fishery producers, representatives of the coastal region’s municipalities, experts from environmental and fisheries authorities, and regenerative ocean farming pioneers from Denmark and Finland. Ambitious ideas were born, for example, the cultivation of pearls in the Lithuanian seaside.
A decade-long journey of blue community gardens in Denmark
“It seems fantastic! But we can see that our neighbours are already practicing it”, reacted the panellists to the Danish presentation of seaweed, mussel and oyster farms cultivation on floating platforms. The Danish blue community gardens and farms not only grow marine foods, but also promote seafood culture, develop recipes, organise tastings, and provide education for children on floating cultivation sites.
“Becoming an ocean farmer in Denmark is incredibly easy. We have collaborated with the authorities to simplify the procedures. You just fill in a one-page application and within a couple of weeks you receive a permit,” said Joachim Hjerl, founder of the NGO Havhøst, sharing his experience of the breakthrough in regenerative ocean farming in Denmark. DIY Ocean Farmer’s Kit, which fits in a small bag, was another Danish initiative that encouraged coastal residents to set up underwater farms and gardens.
According to the Danish expert, the set-up of blue community gardens and farms has sparked the success of regenerative ocean farming in Denmark. Local active people became the core of it, dedicating their time to meaningful activities. “It’s no longer enough to do less harm. By growing marine food, we can contribute to the restoration of marine ecosystems. It’s the low-scale multitrophic cultivation that helps the whole ecosystem to recover,” emphasised Mr Hjerl.
Opportunities for fishermen to earn extra money
Ocean warming, overfishing, and degraded ecosystems – are problems that regenerative farming methods can help address in the Baltic Sea. Even if crops grown by the Lithuanian coastline would not be suitable for food, growing certain species would help control water quality, and temperature, help fish stocks recover, and at the same time support small-scale fishing in the region, the panellists said.
In Denmark, ocean farming practices have also caught the attention of fishermen. “We are supporting local fishermen to adopt regenerative farming methods and at the same time diversify their income. We have prepared convenient budget scenarios based on the species chosen for cultivation, and the scale they intend to achieve. We have demonstrated how seasons of ocean farming and gardening can be compatible with traditional fishing,” revealed the founder of Havhøst.
Marine harvests – for food, cosmetics, fertilisers
Scientists and representatives of fishermen and fishing businesses identified potential collaboration areas for adopting regenerative ocean farming methods in Lithuania. Scientists from Klaipėda University and the Marine Research Institute discussed what types of algae, seaweeds and mussels could grow in our low-salinity waters, and what we can learn from our Baltic Sea neighbours.
An expert from Finland, where regenerative cultivation is still in the experimental stage, provided useful insights for Lithuanians. “In Finland, we face even more challenges than Denmark – much lower salinity – because our cultivation sites are on a breaking point of saline and fresh water. We are currently researching species that would adapt well to low-salinity water. Also, we looked into the freshwater cultivation experience in the USA, Bangladesh and Mexico, and investigated how these methods could be applied in Northern conditions,” said Anita Storm of Aktion Österbotten in Finland.
Ms Storm pointed out that when selecting species, they evaluate the taste qualities of herbs and mussels from Finnish waters, check if they are certified as food in Europe, and whether they are suitable for cosmetics or enrichment of soil with nutrients.
When discussing the country’s potential in ocean farming, Lithuanian representatives almost unanimously leaned towards the cultivation of high-value-added crops and the use of biotechnology. “Pearl millet grows naturally in our waters. In Japan and China, their cultivation is widespread,” Antanas Kontautas, a hydrobiologist at the Marine Research Institute at Klaipėda University, identified one of the possibilities.
Farms and gardens on piers, bridges or wind farms
Lithuania’s open coastline would be one of the biggest challenges for ocean farming in Lithuania. Community farms anchor, buoy or otherwise fix their cultivation equipment along the Baltic Sea coasts. However, the panellists pointed out that it would be difficult to find a stretch of our relatively short coastline where underwater farms or gardens could be safely anchored without interfering with fishery and shipping routes.
Professor Artūras Razinkovas-Baziukas, from the Marine Research Institute at Klaipėda University, presented his idea of developing floating islands. “Floating islands improve the oxygen regime, reduce the water temperature in summer due to evapotranspiration, and can be used as platforms for multitrophic aquaculture,” the scientist noted.
“The future offshore wind farm near the Lithuanian coast must include compensatory measures to help restore biogenic reefs and benthic habitats damaged during construction. One of them could be the cultivation of Baltic Sea mussels, which are naturally adapted to lower salinity conditions and are an important part of reef habitats. This would help to recover the benthic reef habitats damaged by human activities and invasive species, like round goby. With the involvement of the local community, mussel cultivation sites attached to the Palanga Sea Bridge would also benefit the environment – clean the water, attract fish – and people,” said Jonas Pašukonis, representative of the State Service for Protected Areas under the Ministry of the Environment, identifying the options for the regenerative cultivation sites.
The discussion focused on how to adopt Latvia’s experience, where open seafront issues are managed by installing marine cultivation sites next to sea peers. Eglė Stonkė, head of the association “Klaipėdos regionas” (Klaipėda Region), which unites coastal municipalities, noted that in the future we may have similar conditions near Lithuanian shores, as there are plans to develop and expand the harbours in Šventoji, Nida, and Juodkrantė.
Algae farms in USA nurtured by a Lithuanian-born scientist
PhD Simona Augytė, marine biologist, shared her insights on how to promote aquaculture in Lithuania and her inspiration to combine research and ocean farming. Having spent most of her life in the US, she has been researching seaweed and algae since her studies, worked with start-ups that use seaweed to produce methane-reducing feeds, attempting to adapt it to biofuel production, developed and tested technologies for offshore cultivation of seaweed and sea lettuce. Currently, she works as research director at Marine Biologics, a biotech company in France, which processes macroalgae and develops next-generation bioactive ingredients.
Now based in Hawaii, the scientist also uses her research experience collaborating with ocean farmers who cultivate seaweed. Lithuania could also analyse ocean cultivation technologies used in the US, as Atlantic farmers in states such as Connecticut and Maine are also facing similar challenges due to high waves, she believes.
“We have cultivated a species of brown algae that is adapted to high waviness, we have perfected the cultivation methods in the laboratory, and we have worked intensively with ocean farmers who have started to grow the species on large scales,” said PhD Augytė.
Open-shore farming systems are set up using anchors, buoys and ropes. The scientist also suggested that Lithuanians consider the alternative of growing marine crops onshore, in tanks close to the sea. According to her, this method offers more possibilities to control growing conditions, water temperature and other factors. The researcher demonstrated a similar onshore aquaculture system in Hawaii for cultivation of microalgae and oysters.
The Lithuanian-born PhD also founded an NGO in California that organises annual seaweed festivals to promote aquaculture, marine conservation, and the use of seaweed in culinary, science and technology.
The discussion “Sea of Opportunities: innovative ocean farming practices for business” was funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe project COOL BLUE BALTIC (CBB).
The EU-Japan Centre invites all EU SMEs to apply to a Digital Business Mission in Japan.
Selected companies will exhibit at CEATEC in Chiba (Tokyo) this October, on the booth of the EU-Japan Centre. All fees related to the exhibition, booth, materials and translation are covered by EU-Japan Centre. The one-week program includes exclusive B2B opportunities and short business training courses on the Japanese market.
The Centre’s Business Missions comes with unparalleled support before and after the exhibition, free interpreters on-site and unlimited access to their 37 years of expertise on the EU-Japan trade relationship.
Business Mission to Japan with B2Bs and exhibition on EU-Japan Centre booth.
Target sector: Digital
Trade fair: CEATEC Japan
Period: October 14-18
Location: Chiba (Tokyo)
Cost: None, all activities, translation and fair costs covered. Participants cover their travel and living expenses.
Detailed information: EU-Japan Centre Digital Business Mission in Japan
Application Deadline: June 30
For inquiries, contact Denis Ledent at d.ledent@eu-japan.eu
International port technology hackathon PORTATHON is coming – on 27-29 September Klaipėda once again will become the birthplace of innovative technological and digital solutions for ports. Experts in digitalisation, cybersecurity, logistics, port technology, university communities and start-ups are invited to join – participate, mentor and submit challenges.
Meet-up of experts and young talents
Spreading the sails towards port innovations, Portathon is initiated by the Klaipėda Science and Technology Park in collaboration with the Lithuanian Maritime Cluster and long-term partners. This year, participants will generate solutions for the challenges of sustainable ports, port cities and ecosystems, the maritime industry, logistics and energy.
“We invite young talents, scientists and business experts from various fields to “dock” in Klaipėda, share their knowledge and experience, and embark on a mission of creating modern ports. For start-ups, this hackathon is a great opportunity to meet potential clients and establish contacts with maritime businesses”, says Erika Zavackienė, Project Manager of Klaipėda Science and Technology Park and coordinator of the hackathon.
Every year, Portathon attracts around 100 innovators from the Baltic Sea countries, other European countries and even other continents. The organisers encourage both teams and individuals to register. According to them, the most successful teams are those formed of representatives with background in different sectors.
Starting point for marine start-ups
Members of the port ecosystem and scientific institutions are welcome to submit challenges, which will be solved during a 48-hour hackathon. Participants will be mentored and guided by an international team of mentors, joined each year by over 20 experts in a wide range of fields.
“For the cluster, the value of this hackathon lies in discovering young talents, establishing cooperation with scientists, nurturing a new generation of professionals, and fostering the creation of start-ups which develop modern solutions for ports,” says Andrius Sutnikas, Coordinator of the Lithuanian Maritime Cluster.
Previously, the most successful teams were invited by port companies to further develop their ideas, create prototypes, and join their teams.
This year, Portathon is co-funded by the international Blue Supply Chains project and will seek to respond to the challenges of creating and developing sustainable supply chains in the Baltic Sea Region.
REGISTRATION
Participants & teams: https://bit.ly/Portathon2024Participants
Mentors: https://bit.ly/Portathon2024Mentors
Challenges: https://bit.ly/Portathon2024Challenges
Co-funded by the Interreg Baltic Sea Region Programme, the Blue Supply Chains project is helping to drive the transition towards a green and resilient Baltic Sea Region.
This article was prepared with the financial support of the Interreg Baltic Sea Region. Klaipėda Science and Technology Park is responsible for the content of the article. Under no circumstances can it be taken to reflect the opinion of the Programme.
Over two days, the TETRAS team met in Poland to discuss the project’s progress, realign goals, and enhance collaboration among partners to smoothly navigate the next phase of the project.
TETRAS is a three-year project co-financed by Interreg Baltic Sea Region. The project brings together ten partners from five different countries in the region to improve the environmental and economic performance of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) through new concepts of industrial symbiosis. This approach aims to increase resource use efficiency and promote food security while enhancing investment, implementation, and expansion of these food production systems in the Baltic Sea Region.
Partners from the ten organizations involved in the TETRAS project gathered at the Faculty of Oceanography and Geography of the University of Gdańsk on May 6 and 7, 2024. Over the two days, project partners discussed pilot updates, strengthened collaboration opportunities between pilots and partners, and paved the way ahead to achieve the project’s goals successfully.
Assessing Impact: Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in RAS
As part of the project activities, specifically in Pilot 2 (geothermal resources) and Pilot 4 (small-scale RAS for social awareness), a life cycle assessment will be carried out. For this, the TETRAS team has the support of Lorenzo Rossi and his team from the University of Milan, Italy. LCA is a tool to assess the environmental impacts and resources used throughout a product’s life cycle. With alternative production systems like RAS, it is important to use LCA to compare and highlight the benefits of these systems over traditional ones and identify improvement opportunities.
During the partner meeting, partners learned first-hand from Lorenzo about LCA in aquaculture and the approach taken by his team, and the specific data being collected for the TETRAS project. The group also discussed the challenges of carrying out LCAs and how best to present the results to external stakeholders, such as decision-makers and investors.
Polish Aquaculture Overview
Another highlight of the meeting was a presentation on the Polish aquaculture sector by Tomasz Kulikowski, from the National Marine Fisheries Research Institute (MIR-PIB) and a member of the Project Advisory Group (PAG) of TETRAS. Tomasz provided context on the evolutions of the Polish aquaculture sector, which currently supplies 4% of the national seafood in live weight equivalent, with carp and trout being the main species cultured. He also shared success stories, opportunities, and challenges for different types of aquaculture in Poland (earth ponds, flow-through farms, semi-RAS, and closed-RAS), comparing them in terms of species, number of farms, staff requirements, and other factors. One of the most interesting aspects was learning from other aquaculture sectors, such as the communication campaign by Polish carp producers to attract young consumers and the role of active producer organizations.
Advancing Symbiosis: Insights from the Estonian Pilot and Feasibility Study
The Estonian Pilot (Pilot 3) of TETRAS is contributing to the development of the Estonian Symbiosis AgroPark (EISAP), with Ida-Viru Investment Agency (IVIA) leading its activities. To develop a comprehensive feasibility study for the early-stage development of the EISAP, IVIA partnered with Consultare OÜ, an experienced Estonian consultancy. Consultare OÜ is conducting a feasibility study to analyze the use of available resources (land, water, energy) at the EISAP and strategies for optimal water use and management in designing a commercial RAS farm in symbiosis with greenhouses. During the partner meeting, Kristo Kiiker and Kirstjan Piirimae from Consultare OÜ shared the scope and approach of this task and their progress. It was enlightening to understand all the factors considered in such studies, and the groups remained looking forward to seeing the progress of this study.
Exploring Innovation on the Ground: K1/K2 Site Visit
What better way to complement the excellent discussions than with a visit to an aquaculture farm?
On the second day, Marcin Juchniewicz from K1/K2 Trout Farm welcomed the group to their facilities. The visit started at the K1 site, where rainbow trout is grown in tanks in semi-RAS with 80% water recirculation. The farm was renovated from a flow-through system to semi-RAS, allowing them to triple their production and overcome summer water shortages.
Looking to diversify its products, the farm has two production types: one for trout fillets and another for trout egg caviar. Trout fillets are ready for harvest after 5-6 months, while those for caviar take about two years. The TETRAS team learned about the farm’s operation, water treatment process, monitory system, and the challenges of operating an aquaculture farm.
The group then visited the K2 site, a newly built AS facility aiming for 90-95% water recirculation. The timing was perfect, as the construction of the tanks and water treatment system had recently finished, with only the hatchery currently operating. Partners were able to see the facility and understand the system’s operation, looking forward to returning and seeing K2 fully operational.
Planning Ahead: Defining the Next Steps for TETRAS
The project is nearing its midpoint. During the first year, the focus was on preparing pilot activities, and in early 2024, the team began actively implementing them. With a year and a half ahead, and the most crucial part of the project coming, TETRAS partners had fruitful discussions on the next steps to navigate the second half smoothly and accomplish the set goals.
Stay tuned for further developments as exciting things lie ahead!
The TETRAS project, co-funded by the Interreg BSR program, helps promote the transition to a green and resilient Baltic Sea region. TETRAS (Technology transfer for thriving recirculating aquaculture systems in the Baltic Sea Region) aims to solve common challenges of the Baltic Sea region – how to harmonize economic development with social and environmental protection goals.