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On Saturday, November 30th, the first Regenerative Aquaculture Seminar in Menorca will take place at the Claustre del Carme in Maó. Organized by GOB Menorca, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore a pioneering approach to sustainable blue economy with proven ecological, economic, and social benefits. Registration is still open via this link.
Menorca’s natural conditions make it an ideal candidate to lead the way in regenerative aquaculture, aligning perfectly with its status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Keynote speaker: Ignasi Gairín
Ignasi Gairín, a veterinarian and technician at the first Mediterranean restorative aquaculture center, will discuss the role of aquaculture in ecosystem restoration and the recovery of endangered species, such as the noble pen shell (Pinna nobilis). He will also delve into multi-trophic aquaculture systems, which integrate fish, bivalves, and algae to optimize resource use.
Additionally, Ignasi will share insights from ongoing projects at the Agri-Food Research and Technology Institute in La Ràpita. One of the hot topics he will address is whether offshore wind farms—an emerging energy source for replacing fossil fuels—could present opportunities for regenerative aquaculture in Menorca.
Keynote speaker: Alejandro Simón
Alejandro Simon, co-founder of the start-up Mediterranean Algae and a specialist in aquaculture, will bring a practical perspective to the seminar. He will showcase how macroalgae can serve as an innovative and sustainable solution to improve water quality in port environments. His presentation will highlight the results of a bioremediation system that uses macroalgae to absorb nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as heavy metals, helping reduce eutrophication and increase dissolved oxygen levels.
Alejandro will also address the potential of macroalgae for productive applications, including human consumption, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, he will explore the environmental benefits, technical challenges, and future prospects for scaling this technology across port facilities, along with the next steps planned for bioremediation and sustainable algae production.
Interactive networking
The seminar will conclude with a lunch featuring the speakers, providing participants an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and engage in discussions.
The event is organized with the collaboration of the Marilles Foundation, Menorca Preservation, the Balearic Islands Port Authority, the Consell Insular de Menorca, and the Maó City Council.
Don’t miss this chance to discover how regenerative aquaculture can transform Menorca into a leader in sustainable marine innovation!