EVENTS: 2nd “Collaboration Room” – Blue Growth | New synergies between businesses and research laboratories
The Observatory of Innovative Entrepreneurship of the Region of Crete (IBO) organized the 2nd Collaboration Room, dedicated to Blue Growth – a strategic sector within the “Sustainable Use of Resources” of the Smart Specialization Strategy of the Region of Crete (RIS3Crete).
The event was held on 23 March 2026 at the Technical Institute of the Heraklion Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Greece, bringing together researchers, academics, and business stakeholders for an open discussion on Blue Growth. Emphasis was placed on fostering active networking and advancing the development of specific collaborative initiatives in the field of Blue Growth across the Region of Crete.
During the event, participants were divided into three equally sized groups, and three thematic sessions were conducted in parallel, each focusing on a different topic. The three thematic sections were: 1) Bio-Resources and Food Innovation, 2) Blue Tourism and Coastal Protection and 3) Smart Water Systems and Circular Economy – Blue Energy and Hybrid Infrastructure.
Bio-Resources and Food Innovation
In the first thematic section on Bio-Resources and Food Innovation, participants presented their capabilities and areas of interest, and discussed the challenges caused by the distribution of invasive puffer fish populations, both in the marine ecosystem of Crete and for the local fishing community. Legislative challenges were identified, along with issues related to quantification and the determination of critical factors regarding the problem, and relevant methods for addressing it were also proposed. At the same time, common areas of interest were also identified concerning the use and exploitation of marine plants in both the cosmetic sector and the fertilizers and biostimulants sector.
Blue Tourism and Coastal Protection
The thematic group on Blue Tourism and Coastal Protection addressed challenges related to the overexploitation of coastal zones, data collection in marine and coastal areas, the promotion of alternative and sustainable tourism, waste water and waste management in hotel facilities, the protection of underwater cultural heritage, and the development of diving parks with artificial reefs. Additional issues were identified in the regulatory framework particularly regarding the licencing of diving parks and the management of overtourism. The need for advanced monitoring systems, using satellite models and floating instruments, to support the protection of coastal and marine ecosystems was also highlighted.
Smart Water Systems and Circular Economy – Blue Energy and Hybrid Infrastructure
In the third section “Smart Water Systems and Circular Economy – Blue Energy and Hybrid Infrastructure” participants outlined challenges, interests and potential solutions thorough products and services related to decentralized wastewater management, utilisation of organic waste material, water resource management, drinking water bottling, plastic recycling, clean energy, and the optimal use of infrastructure and systems. Policy-related challenges and needs were also identified regarding public information and awareness, preparation for the upcoming deposit return scheme for plastic bottles, and improvements to the waste recycling system.
After the exchange of ideas and solutions at each table was completed, the conclusions were presented to the plenary session. Participants were then given the opportunity to move between the different tables for further networking, resulting in the proposal of 12 potential collaborations.
In conclusion, the Collaboration Room highlighted the importance of linking research and entrepreneurship, fostering the development of synergies and new innovative initiatives tailored to the needs and interests of participants.