Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B NEXT Black Sea Basin

Date of latest update: 2024-11-12

Description

Description (EN):

The MACRO CLEAN project is a collaborative initiative involving partners; Sinop University and Marmara Municipalities Union (MMU) from Turkey, Batumi State University from Georgia and Shumen University from Bulgaria. The project focuses on researching and establishing pilot implementations for the economic utilization of macroalgae while preventing and mitigating the impact of human activities on eutrophication and macroalgae blooms in the Black Sea region. The overall objective of the project is to develop a comprehensive research methodology for studying macroalgae, enhance laboratory infrastructure, develop feasibility plans for macroalgae utilization, raise awareness among stakeholders and promote collaboration and innovative cleaning processes and technologies. The project aims to bring about a positive change in the current situation by contributing to the economic utilization of macroalgae, mitigating the impact of eutrophication and promoting sustainable resource utilization in the Black Sea region. The common challenge the project tackles is the issue of eutrophication and macroalgae blooms in the Black Sea. These challenges are caused by factors such as land-based pollution and changes in marine living resources. The project aims to address these challenges through a comprehensive approach that includes research, capacity building, feasibility assessments, awareness raising and collaboration. The main outputs and results of the project include: 1. Comprehensive research methodology: The project will develop a robust research methodology for studying macroalgae, including clear objectives, standardized protocols and effective data management practices. 2. Modernized laboratory infrastructure: The project will enhance the laboratory infrastructure in partner universities to support comprehensive research on macroalgae, including equipment and capacity building support for researchers. 3. Feasibility plans: The project will develop feasibility plans to assess the technical, financial, economic and social viability of pilot implementations for macroalgae utilization, specifically in the production of fertilizer and bioplastics. 4. Stakeholder awareness: The project will raise awareness among stakeholders and target groups about macroalgae-related issues, eutrophication and sustainable resource utilization through workshops, training sessions, clean-up events and an international conference. 5. Methodologies and technologies report: The project will compile a report on methodologies and technologies for macroalgae and eutrophication collection and cleaning, providing valuable insights on best practices and technological advancements. 6. Start-up support: The project will provide training and mentoring sessions for selected start-ups, supporting their business and product development in the macroalgae sector. The planned approach of the project involves activities such as establishing research teams, developing research methodologies, conducting fieldwork and laboratory analyses, implementing action plans organizing workshops and training sessions and facilitating knowledge exchange and collaboration. Transnational cooperation is needed to achieve the project objectives and results because the challenges faced in the Black Sea region, such as eutrophication and macroalgae blooms, transcend national boundaries. The pollution and degradation of the Black Sea are caused by activities within its catchment area, requiring a coordinated effort among different countries to effectively address the root causes and mitigate the impacts. Collaboration among partners from multiple countries is essential to share knowledge, resources and best practices, as well as to foster innovation and promote sustainable solutions at a regional level.

Expected Achievements (EN):

To develop a comprehensive research methodology for studying macroalgae, including clear objectives, standardized protocols and effective data management practices. To enhance laboratory infrastructure in partner universities and provide capacity building support to researchers, focusing on areas such as seawater pollution measurements and laboratory analysis methods. To develop feasibility plans to assess the technical, financial, economic and social viability for pilot implementations for the economic utilization of macroalgae, specifically in the production of fertilizer and bioplastics. To raise awareness among stakeholders and target groups about macroalgae-related issues, eutrophication and sustainable resource utilization through workshops, training sessions, clean-up events and an international conference. Facilitate knowledge transfer, disseminate research findings and promote collaboration, funding opportunities and innovative cleaning processes and technologies

Project outputs: Comprehensive Research Methodology(EN)
Enhanced Research Infrastructure and Analysis(EN)
Action Plan(EN)
Three-Day Workshop with Local Public Authorities (EN)
International Coastal Clean-Up Campaign(EN)

Thematic information

Innovation capacity and awareness-raising Coastal management and maritime issues Waste and pollution

Priority: (VI-B_BSB_P1) Blue and Smart Region

Priority specific objective: RSO1.1. Developing and enhancing research and innovation capacities and the uptake of advanced technologies

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO1 A more competitive and smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation and regional ICT connectivity

Type of intervention: 029 Research and innovation processes, technology transfer and cooperation between enterprises, research centres and universities, focusing on the low carbon economy, resilience and adaptation to climate change

Partners (4)

Lead Partner: Sinop Üniversitesi Su Ürünleri Fakültesi

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 946800608

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 7710308493

Department: Department of Hydrobiology

Address: Korucuk Mah. Üniversite Cad, 57000 Sinop, Turkey

Department address: Korucuk Mah. Üniversite Cad, 57000 İstanbul, Turkey

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://sinop.edu.tr/

Total budget: EUR 428 445.12

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 385 600.60

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 42 844.52

ბათუმის შოთა რუსთაველის სახელმწიფო უნივერსიტეტი

Name: ბათუმის შოთა რუსთაველის სახელმწიფო უნივერსიტეტი

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 966798419

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 245428158

Address: Ninoshvili/Rustaveli str. , 6010 Batumi, Georgia

Department address: Ninoshvili/Rustaveli str. , 6010 Batumi, Georgia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.bsu.edu.ge

Total budget: EUR 332 722.92

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 299 450.62

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 33 272.30

SHUMENSKI UNIVERSITET EPISKOP KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKI

Name: SHUMENSKI UNIVERSITET EPISKOP KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKI

Department: Department of Biology and Department of Plant Protection, Botany and Zoology

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 986378160

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 000934863

Address: Universitetska, 9712 Shumen, Bulgaria

Department address: Universitetska, 9712 Shumen, Bulgaria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.shu.bg

Total budget: EUR 290 286.72

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 261 258.04

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 29 028.68

Marmara Belediyeler Birliği

Name: Marmara Belediyeler Birliği

Department: Directorate of Trainings and Projects

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 938352005

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 8150016222

Address: Ragıp Gümüşpala Caddesi , 34134 İstanbul, Turkey

Department address: Ragıp Gümüşpala Caddesi , 34134 Istanbul, Turkey

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Regional public authority

Website: https://www.marmara.gov.tr

Total budget: EUR 454 921.20

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 409 429.08

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 45 492.12

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

BATUMI SHOTA RUSTAVELI STATE UNIVERSITY

Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms

Partners and Projects info

KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKY UNIVERSITY OF SHUMEN

Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms

Partners and Projects info

Marmara Municipalities Union

Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms

Partners and Projects info

University of Sinop Fisheries Faculty

Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms

Project acronym: MACRO CLEAN

Project ID: BSB00584

Project start date: 2024-09-18

Project end date: 2027-03-17

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

Project supported under EU Horizon Programme;
1. GENIALG (GENetic diversity exploitation for Innovative macro-ALGal biorefinery): This project aims to boost the production and sustainable exploitation of macroalgae in Europe. It focuses on identifying and cultivating novel species of macroalgae with high potential for use in biorefineries. The project explores the potential of macroalgae in various applications, including biofuels, biofertilizers and biostimulants.
2. ALFF (Advanced Light for Factories): ALFF project investigates the use of macroalgae cultivation systems in the context of industrial factories to mitigate eutrophication caused by nutrient-rich wastewaters. It aims to develop innovative, low-cost photobioreactors and optimize the cultivation of macroalgae using artificial light sources. The project also examines the potential of macroalgae for wastewater treatment and resource recovery.
3. Blue Growth Farm (Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture for Sustainable Seaweed and Bivalve Production): This project focuses on developing sustainable integrated aquaculture systems using seaweed and bivalves. It aims to optimize the co-cultivation of macroalgae and shellfish to reduce nutrient inputs and enhance ecosystem services. The project investigates the environmental benefits of integrated multi-trophic aquaculture and its potential for mitigating eutrophication.
4. SEA-TITAN (Sustainable Ecosystem for Aquaculture Transition and INnovation): SEA-TITAN project aims to address the challenges of eutrophication and improve the sustainability of aquaculture practices in Europe. It investigates the use of macroalgae cultivation systems as a means to remove excess nutrients from aquaculture effluents, thus reducing eutrophication risks. The project focuses on developing cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions for nutrient management in aquaculture.
(EN) | Even the most of the below mentioned projects completed or about to be completed soon, Macro Clean project teams will contact with the related representatives and try to create the synergies below;
GENIALG: The Macro Clean project will collaborate with GENIALG to explore the potential of macroalgae in biofuels production. By developing efficient and sustainable methods for cultivating and processing macroalgae, the Macro Clean project will contribute to the goals of GENIALG in boosting macroalgae production for bio refineries.
ALFF: The Macro Clean project will collaborate with ALFF to optimize the cultivation of macroalgae using artificial light sources. By providing insights and expertise in macroalgae cultivation, the Macro Clean project will contribute to the development of innovative photobioreactors and cultivation systems proposed by ALFF.
Blue Growth Farm: The Macro Clean project will collaborate with Blue Growth Farm to optimize the co-cultivation of macroalgae and shellfish in integrated multi-trophic aquaculture systems. By studying the nutrient dynamics and interactions within these systems, the Macro Clean project will provide valuable insights to enhance the environmental benefits of the integrated approach proposed by Blue Growth Farm.
SEA-TITAN: The Macro Clean project will collaborate with SEA-TITAN to develop cost-effective nutrient management solutions for aquaculture. By focusing on the cultivation of macroalgae and its ability to remove excess nutrients from aquaculture effluents, the Macro Clean project will contribute to SEA-TITAN's objective of addressing eutrophication challenges in aquaculture practices.
The above mentioned synergies will involve knowledge exchange, sharing of research findings, collaborative field studies and joint efforts to develop innovative solutions.
(EN), Project supported under EU LIFE Programme
LIFE Algaecom: This project aims to mitigate eutrophication in water bodies by utilizing macroalgae as a natural solution. It focuses on the cultivation and harvesting of macroalgae to remove excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from the water. The project explores the use of harvested macroalgae biomass for various applications, including bioenergy production and nutrient recycling.
LIFE-IP REWAT: This project focuses on implementing integrated water management strategies to address water-related challenges, including eutrophication. It incorporates the cultivation of macroalgae as part of a holistic approach to nutrient reduction. The project aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of macroalgae in improving water quality and restoring ecological balance in impacted water bodies.
LIFE+ Macrofit: This project focuses on the implementation of macroalgae-based wastewater treatment systems for the mitigation of eutrophication. It aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of using macroalgae as a natural filter to remove nutrients from wastewater streams. The project also explores the possibilities of utilizing the harvested macroalgae biomass for biogas production and other applications.
(EN) | Even the most of the below mentioned projects completed or about to be completed soon, Macro Clean project teams will contact with the related representatives and try to create the synergies below;
LIFE Algaecom: Collaboration between the projects will be provided by sharing knowledge and expertise in macroalgae cultivation and harvesting techniques. The Macro Clean projects will provide insights into optimizing the cultivation process to maximize nutrient removal and biomass production.
LIFE-IP REWAT: The Macro Clean projects will contribute to this project by providing insights into the use of macroalgae as part of integrated water management strategies. They will share information on the effectiveness of macroalgae in improving water quality and restoring ecological balance, based on their own research and findings.
4. LIFE+ Macrofit: The Macro Clean projects will collaborate with LIFE+ Macrofit in implementing macroalgae-based wastewater treatment systems. They will share knowledge on the design, operation and optimization of such systems for the mitigation of eutrophication. The Macro Clean projects will also contribute to the exploration of additional applications for the harvested macroalgae biomass, such as biogas production, aligning with the goals of resource recovery and circular economy.
Through collaboration and knowledge exchange, the Macro Clean projects and the LIFE projects will enhance their efforts in addressing eutrophication and promoting the sustainable use of macroalgae as a natural solution. They will share lessons learned, exchange best practices and contribute to the broader understanding of macroalgae's potential for nutrient removal, biomass production and ecosystem restoration.
(EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 1 506 375.96

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 355 738.34

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 90.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

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Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

SeaBasinStrategyBlackSea The Macro Clean Project, is a collaborative initiative that contributes to the Common Maritime Agenda by addressing eutrophication and macroalgae blooms in the Black Sea region. The project aims to develop a research methodology for studying macroalgae, including clear objectives, standardized protocols and effective data management. This improvement in research methodologies supports sustainable resource utilization and addresses the challenges of eutrophication and macroalgae blooms. The project also focuses on enhancing the laboratory infrastructure in partner universities by providing supplies, equipment and capacity building for researchers. This strengthens research capabilities and promotes scientific research and knowledge exchange in the maritime sector.
Furthermore, by evaluating the technical, financial, economic and social aspects of producing fertilizer and bioplastics from macroalgae, the project promotes sustainable economic growth and innovation in the maritime sector. Stakeholder awareness and collaboration are essential components of the project, which organizes workshops, training sessions, clean-up events and an international conference. These activities raise awareness among stakeholders about macroalgae-related issues, eutrophication and sustainable resource utilization. They facilitate knowledge transfer, disseminate research findings and foster collaboration among researchers, policymakers, industry professionals and other stakeholders, promoting cooperation and coordination in the maritime sector.
The project promotes research, sustainable resource utilization, economic growth, stakeholder collaboration, innovation, entrepreneurship, environmental awareness and knowledge exchange within the maritime sector. Through its comprehensive approach, the project seeks to tackle the challenges and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable maritime environment.
Other PARIS AGGREMEENT on CLIMATE CHANGE
The MACRA CLEAN project focuses on preventing and mitigating the impact of human activities on eutrophication and macroalgae blooms. By addressing the root causes of eutrophication, such as land-based pollution and changes in marine living resources, the project aims to reduce the release of greenhouse gases and other pollutants that contribute to climate change.
The project aims to research and establish pilot implementations for the economic utilization of macroalgae. Macroalgae can serve as a valuable resource for the production of fertilizers and bioplastics, which have the potential to replace more carbon-intensive alternatives. By promoting sustainable resource utilization, the project contributes to the transition to a low-carbon and circular economy, which is a key objective of the Paris Agreement.
The project includes activities such as workshops, training sessions, clean-up events and an international conference to raise awareness among stakeholders and target groups. These activities facilitate knowledge transfer, disseminate research findings and promote collaboration and innovative cleaning processes and technologies. By increasing awareness and knowledge about macroalgae-related issues and sustainable resource utilization, the project encourages actions that support the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The project aims to enhance the laboratory infrastructure in partner universities and provide capacity building support to researchers. This includes areas such as seawater pollution measurements and laboratory analysis methods. By strengthening research capabilities and fostering scientific collaboration, the project contributes to the development of innovative solutions and informed decision-making, which are important for effective climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Other UN- SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
The Macro Clean Project contributes to several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its activities and objectives as follows;
Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: The project focuses on the economic utilization of macroalgae, including the production of fertilizers and bioplastics. By developing feasibility plans, supporting start-ups and organizing entrepreneurship programs, the project promotes innovation, supports the growth of sustainable industries and contributes to the development of infrastructure for sustainable resource utilization.
Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: The project aims to develop sustainable practices for macroalgae utilization, including the production of fertilizers and bioplastics. By assessing the technical, financial, economic and social viability of these pilot implementations, the project promotes responsible consumption and production patterns that minimize waste generation and environmental impact.
Goal 14: Life Below Water: The project's objective of mitigating the impact of human activities on eutrophication and macroalgae blooms contributes to the conservation and sustainable use of marine ecosystems. By raising awareness, conducting clean-up events and implementing methodologies for macroalgae collection and cleaning, the project helps preserve marine biodiversity and ecosystems.
Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals: The Macro Clean Project involves transnational cooperation among partner universities and waste management authorities from Turkey, Georgia and Bulgaria. This collaboration fosters knowledge exchange, capacity building and the sharing of best practices. By promoting partnerships and collaboration, the project strengthens the overall effectiveness and impact of its activities.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:
RCO 007 - Research organisations participating in joint research projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 115 - Public events across borders jointly organised, Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 084 - Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:

Delivered result indicator(s):

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B NEXT Black Sea Basin

Last month that data in keep.eu was retrieved from the Programme's website or received from the Programme

2024-11-12

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

32 / 32 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

147 / 147 (100%)

Notes on the data

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Research, Cleaning Methodologies, Economic Valorization and Pilot Application for Macroalgal Blooms

Description

Thematic information

Partners (4)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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