Article: A Joint Model of Science, Citizens and Stakeholder Engagement: Shaping a Blue Future for the Adriatic Sea
23/12/2025
The BlueDiversity project, funded by the European Union, promotes cooperation
between Italy and Croatia to protect the biodiversity of the Adriatic Sea from the
threats of climate change. Through six pilot areas, the initiative uses cutting-edge
scientific tools such as environmental DNA analysis to monitor native species and
detect invasive species early. A key objective is the management of the blue crab
(Callinectes sapidus), an alien species being controlled through selective trapping and
its commercial valorization in the culinary field. The program integrates the principles
of the circular economy, encouraging the use of biodegradable materials in the
fishing and aquaculture sectors to reduce marine litter. Finally, the active involvement
of citizens and local stakeholders aims to transform academic research into
concrete actions for sustainable coastal development.