Italian secondees from UNICAL and representatives from H2O Robotics/UNIZG came together to participate in an event on the Blue Economy, hosted by the Croatian Chamber of Economy (HGK).

The Embassy of Italy in Zagreb organized an event focusing on the blue economy and the use of innovative technology in the study and conservation of marine ecosystems. The event was attended by secondees from UNICAL (Santina Fortuna, Umberto Severino) and representatives from H2O Robotics and the University of Zagreb on May 10th at the Croatian Chamber of Economy (HGK). The event aimed to explore the role of the Blue Economy in fostering sustainable development between Italy and Croatia, with a special emphasis on the development and use of innovative technology for the study and conservation of marine ecosystems.

The event covered a range of topics related to the TECTONIC project, including public awareness and knowledge, sustainable technologies, and the preservation of ecosystems and submerged sites. Speakers emphasized the importance of considering the intrinsic implications of marine technologies and their impact on society and the marine ecosystem. Santina and Umberto are currently working on the development of a low-cost technology for the documentation of underwater sites, aiming to make it accessible to a larger number of users and public and private entities.

In addition to the presentations, the secondees had the opportunity to meet professionals from various sectors (public and private stakeholders in scientific research, innovation processes, and economic development) to exchange knowledge and opinions on marine technologies.

The marine environment is a collective asset, and its preservation is a shared goal.