On 14 November 2025, AULEDA – Local Economic Development Agency organized the RECONNECT Information Meeting at the premises of Alb Adriatico in Dukat-Fushë, Vlora. The event brought together public institutions, fisheries and aquaculture businesses, and local stakeholders to present the RECONNECT project, discuss opportunities for the blue and circular economy, and gather valuable input to guide future project activities.
Building a Regional Ecosystem for Circular Blue Economy
The information meeting introduced the objectives, international partnership, and expected results of the RECONNECT project while creating an open dialogue with regional stakeholders.
Participants were presented with the main findings of the preliminary regional analysis on industrial symbiosis and the circular economy potential within the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. Discussions focused on identifying the sector’s priorities, existing challenges, and opportunities for collaboration that will support the project’s implementation in the Vlora region.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement, ensuring that future RECONNECT actions respond to real regional needs and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable blue economy.
One of the key highlights of the event was the presentation of good practices in circular economy within the fisheries and aquaculture sector. Participants learned about the collaboration between Alb Adriatico and Balkan Zoo Farm, where fish-processing residues are transformed into valuable resources instead of becoming waste. This example demonstrated how industrial symbiosis can create environmental and economic benefits while improving resource efficiency.
The meeting also explored the role of Open Innovation and emerging technologies in supporting the reuse and valorisation of fisheries and aquaculture waste. Participants discussed how innovation can help transform by-products into high-value products while encouraging cooperation between businesses, research organisations, and other stakeholders. The suggestions collected during the discussion will contribute to shaping the next phases of the RECONNECT project.
Following the presentations, participants joined a technical visit to the Alb Adriatico facilities, where they observed production processes and sustainable operational practices. The visit included the company’s aquaculture tanks, providing a practical example of responsible fish farming and demonstrating how circular economy principles can be integrated into everyday business operations.
Through initiatives such as this information meeting, RECONNECT strengthens cooperation between industries, artisanal SMEs, research organisations, and public authorities, laying the foundation for a more innovative, resource-efficient, and environmentally sustainable blue economy across the Adriatic-Ionian region.
“The active participation of local stakeholders demonstrated a strong willingness to work together towards a more circular and sustainable fisheries and aquaculture sector. Their experience and recommendations will help ensure that RECONNECT develops practical solutions with real value for the region.”
