Dear partners, innovators, community, and friends,

This festive season, we invite you to stop for a moment and celebrate!

May your year be filled with:

The power of Knowledge that sparks creativity and new ideas.

Success driven by the inner motivation and the courage to move forward.

Teamwork – the true foundation for all the progress.

Prosperity and growth, both for you and those around you.

We wish you a joyful Christmas holiday and an inspiring New Year!

With warmest regards,

The Klaipėda Science and Technology Park Team

TETRAS project partners workshop Feasibility and Beyond at Mission Arena 3. © Delphine Chavalier

Stefan Teerlinck (Flemish Aquaculture Platform) presenting case studies of successes and failures in RAS in Flanders.

TETRAS project partners at Mission Arena 3. © Delphine Chavalier

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 University (KU), together with two other Lithuanian universities, ministries, and industrial companies, signed an agreement to establish the CCS/CCUS (Lithuanian Carbon Capture, Transport, Storage and Utilization) platform. According to the representatives of the Ministry of Energy, the aim is to create a platform that will operate as a national hub for advancing CCS technologies, promoting industry engagement, and aligning Lithuania’s CCS efforts with European and global strategies.

The agreement aims to promote the development of CO² transport infrastructure, to encourage research and innovation. This is to ensure a sustainable, secure, and competitive energy supply for the country.

“When it comes to CO² capture, transport, and storage, Europe and the whole world face major challenges. We support the ambition to develop a single platform at national level. Klaipeda University is one of the three universities invited to join the development of this important project. We will make every effort to use the potential we have – the knowledge of our scientists, our equipment”, says Dr. Benediktas Petrauskas, Vice-Rector of Infrastructure and Development of KU, who signed the agreement.

The National Energy Independence Strategy aims to ensure the transition to clean energy sources and technological progress in Lithuania, while contributing to environmental objectives.

The agreement on the establishment of the CCS/CCUS platform in Lithuania was signed by the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Economy and Innovation, the Ministry of Environment, the Lithuanian Confederation of Industrialists, Klaipeda University, Kaunas University of Technology, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Lithuanian Energy Institute, KN Energies, AB, Ambergrid, AB, Achema, AB, and Akmenės cementas, AB.

Exhibit with the EU-Japan Centre at Tokyo’s Decarbonization Expo 2025!

Are you a European business supporting the Green Transition? Have you been looking for a chance to exhibit in Japan? If so, the EU-Japan Centre can help. Apply to the Green Business Mission and get a chance to showcase your company at the Decarbonization Expo in Tokyo in February 2025.

Selected applicants will enjoy a dedicated space on the EU-Japan Centre’s booth, at no cost. Translation of the companies’ profiles and English-Japanese interpreters on-site are also part of the package. Finally, the centre’s will organise extra B2B activities before the fair itself, to maximise your visibility with Japanese companies.

Applying

Businesses interested in participating can submit their applications through the web form here:

EU-Japan Centre Green Business Mission in Japan

Mission location: Tokyo, Japan

Application Deadline:  December 6, 2024

Inquiries: Denis Ledent – d.ledent@eu-japan.eu

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.