In the AquaBioNets project, the Knowledge Network team, together with the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture at the University of Zagreb and partners from Mediterranean countries, is developing solutions for sustainable aquaculture based on biodegradable nets for shellfish farming. You can find more about the project at this link, while in this text we provide an overview of how AquaBioNets aligns with the objectives and measures of the National Aquaculture Development Plan (NADP) 2021-2027.
AquaBioNets and NADP 2021 – 2027: Same vision, same path
Croatian aquaculture is on an upward trajectory: 2023 exceeded 23,200 tons of production with a value over EUR 192 million, with marine aquaculture accounting for 87% of volume and 95% of value. Sea bass, sea bream, and tuna are the most prevalent species, while mussels and oysters stand out among shellfish. At the same time, shellfish farming has suffered stagnation in several areas due to predators, while freshwater farming has declined due to various factors.
What does NADP aim to achieve by 2027?
The National Aquaculture Development Plan (NADP) sets four main objectives:
- More resilient and productive farming adapted to climate change
- Competitive sector with higher value-added products
- Development of rural and coastal communities through new jobs and better living conditions
- Innovative aquaculture with stronger science-practice connections
These objectives are accompanied by specific needs and measures: green investments, biosecurity and risk management, strengthening value chains, connecting with the bioeconomy, and investing in knowledge and innovation.
Conclusion
The growth trend in marine aquaculture and the need for sustainable productivity improvement require smart solutions. AquaBioNets delivers exactly that: clean, safe, and innovative aquaculture that fully aligns with the objectives, needs, and measures of NADP 2021-2027.
👉 If you’re a shellfish farmer interested in pilot testing biodegradable nets, contact us and become part of the change towards sustainable aquaculture of the future!
The AquaBioNets project is co-funded by the European Union through the Interreg Euro-MED program.
