Deliverable 2.1.1 Mapping and Monitoring Protocol for the Blue Crab
This document outlines a common way to track the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) and study its complex life cycle (how it grows and moves). By using standard fishing methods and new tools like LED lights, the project aims to stop the crab from spreading too far.
The final goal is to turn this invasive species from a problem into a way for local coastal towns to make money sustainably.
Deliverable 2.5.1 Report on recycling process
The BlueDiversity project is a mission to protect sea life in the Adriatic Sea, also by focusing on a specific problem: old nylon fishing nets. Instead of letting these nets pollute the ocean, the project wants to collect and recycle them.
Here is a breakdown of how the project works:
Following the Rules
The project looked at laws in Italy and its neighboring countries. In Italy, new rules require that a certain amount of waste must be collected and that the companies who make these nets are responsible for managing them once they are worn out.
Finding the Best Way to Recycle
The report compared two main ways to recycle nylon: mechanical recycling: This is the best option for now because it is cheaper and easier to do; chemical recycling: This process is more expensive, but it creates a "purer" plastic that is almost like new.
Setting Up Shop at the Docks
To make this work, the project designed a plan to build storage centers right at the ports. These centers would: give fishermen a place to drop off old nets; use high-tech scanners (spectroscopy) to inspect the nets and make sure they are the right material; organize the waste so it’s ready to be shipped to recycling plants.
Why This Matters
By turning old nets into new products—like clothing, car parts, or furniture—the project helps the environment and creates new business opportunities. This shift toward a "blue economy" means we can protect our oceans while still growing our industries.
Deliverable 2.5.2 Gillnets circular supply-chain database
Based on the activities carried out in the Italian and Croatian pilot areas of the BlueDiversity project, all Project Partners have entered into the database the data collected on the actors involved in the potential recycling chain of discarded fishing nets, identified during the surveys conducted in the selected ports. The file is organized into two sections: a list of the main actors/stakeholders involved in the potential recovery chain (public bodies, port authorities, specialized companies, environmental associations, fishermen’s associations); and a list of projects and best practices identified during the survey activities in the pilot areas.
Deliverable 2.6.1 Eco-compatible tools and equipment for aquaculture and mariculture
This document analyzes several eco-sustainable alternatives to plastic. It studies materials like cotton, cellulose, hemp, and biopolymers to make nets and containers that help protect marine life and support greener aquaculture.
Through technical tests conducted in pilot areas, the study examines the mechanical performance, biodegradability, and economic sustainability of each resource compared to traditional methods.
The goal is to give practical advice to businesses, helping reduce microplastic pollution in the Adriatic Sea without lowering production efficiency.
Deliverable 2.6.2 Report on costs and benefit of a eco-friendly mussel farming transition
This technical report explores replacing traditional plastic materials, like polypropylene fishing nets, with eco-sustainable alternatives made from natural fibers or biodegradable biopolymers. It uses market research and real-world tests to see how well these new solutions work and whether they are cost-effective.
The main aim is to protect marine life by reducing microplastic pollution, while supporting a circular economy in the seafood industry. The report also acts as a practical guide for professionals, offering real solutions to produce seafood while protecting coastal ecosystems.
Report on Blue Crabs Traps
This document was developed by Blu Marine Service (PP6) after conducting a market analysis of the best traps available for the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus, Rathbun, 1896). All the equipment listed below have been tested in different environments and judged based on: capture capacity, ease of use and storage, resistance, versatility of use in different environments. The tests have been conducted from June to December 2024 in the pilot area PP6.
Report on Pilot Areas
The project collected and reviewed data on species diversity and environmental factors at pilot sites along the Italian and Croatian coasts to identify threats to marine ecosystems. This information will guide the development of strategies to protect biodiversity and ecosystem services in these areas.
Deliverable 1.1.1 – “BlueDiversity Database”
Deliverable 1.1.1 – “BlueDiversity Database” is a core output of the BlueDiversity project, assessing current efforts and opportunities to strengthen ecosystem service preservation. Focusing on selected coastal areas in Italy and Croatia, it provides updated, evidence-based data on biodiversity and environmental conditions. The deliverable also promotes awareness and engagement among stakeholders and the public, with results made available through an open-access database to support informed decision-making and action.
Deliverable 1.2.1 – “BlueDiversity State of the Art Report”
Deliverable 1.2.1 – “BlueDiversity State of the Art Report” presents the results of a survey conducted among Ecosystem Services Users (ESUs) in six Pilot Areas across Italy and Croatia. Through Questionnaire 1.2, the report gathers data on public awareness and perception of ecosystem services, biodiversity, Non-Indigenous Species (NIS), and marine litter. It also considers demographic factors such as location, gender,
and education level, and includes opinions on species like the Blue Crab and related policies. The findings help inform strategies for environmental literacy and conservation actions in the targeted coastal regions.
Deliverable 1.3.1 – “White Paper to BlueDiversity”
The Adriatic Sea has provided benefits and services to humans for centuries. Recent human-derived pressures, including pollution, overfishing, and hydrogeological modifications, rapidly changed marine biodiversity. Climate change and Non-Indigenous Species (NIS) are adding further pressure. Awareness among local stakeholders is high, with most recognizing key issues such as ecosystem services, marine litter, Non-Indigenous Species, and biodiversity.
Deliverable 1.4.1 – “Roadmap to Blue Economy”
Acts as a calibration tool, bridging the theoretical work with upcoming field-testing. By integrating insights from previous deliverables, it helps identify key threats in the project areas and supports the development of tailored solutions that reflect local environmental and socio-economic conditions.