The Awareness Campaign Workshop, organizedwithin the framework of the 2B-BLUE project, was held at the University “Luigj Gurakuqi” in Shkodër, bringing together representatives from academia, NGOs, and key stakeholders in the fisheries from Shkoder Region. The event aimed to promote the development of Blue Biotechnology and foster dialogue on sustainable blue economy practices in Albania and the wider Mediterranean region.
The workshop opened with welcoming remarks from the Albanian Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development (ACEPSD), represented in this regard by Rigers Bakiu (project manager of ACEPSD in 2B-BLUE project) and the hosting university (represented by Adem Bekteshi, full professor in this University), highlighting the importance of collaboration between research institutions and civil society in advancing sustainable marine resource management.
A presentation by Silvia Durmishaj Bakiu (ACEPSD executive director) outlined its role within the 2B-BLUE project, emphasizing its experience in environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable aquaculture. Particular attention was given to its contribution to piloting innovative Blue Biotechnology solutions in Albania, especially through demonstration activities in the Bay of Vlora. A key session focused on the implementation of Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) in Vlora Bay.
This approach was presented as an innovative and sustainable aquaculture model that integrates multiple species across different trophic levels, allowing nutrient recycling, reducing environmental impacts, and increasing production efficiency. The Albanian pilot case demonstrated the integration of species such as seabream, seabass, mussels, oysters, and sea cucumbers to enhance both environmental and economic performance. The workshop also introduced the Analyses and Recommendations on Blue Economy and Blue Biotechnologies in Albania, a key 2B-Blue deliverable, which was prepared by a contracted expert by ACEPSD in close collaboration with ACEPSD staff members.
Additionally, the ADRISMART project was presented by Prof. Adem Bekteshi as a complementary regional initiative aimed at advancing smart and sustainable marine aquaculture in the Adriatic through innovation, cross-border cooperation, and the use of
advanced technologies such as AI-based monitoring systems. The event concluded with a roundtable discussion titled “Community Blue Dialogue”, which facilitated direct engagement among stakeholders from fisheries management organisation Shkoder, students, researchers and County of Shkoder as representative of local authorities. Discussions focused on challenges and opportunities related to the blue bioeconomy, climate change impacts, and the future of sustainable aquaculture in the region of Shkoder and Albania.
