Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Blue Economy in Bologna

DIH InnovaMare project proudly participated in the Conference “Artificial Intelligence, Blue Economy and Interreg Synergies—Connecting Ideas and Territories through AI” held on 12 February 2026 at the Tecnopolo Manifattura in Bologna.

Organised by seven projects and with the support of the Interreg Italy-Croatia Programme, the event drew more than 200 participants and 20 speakers from the Blue Economy sector, teaching us about how artificial intelligence can support a more sustainable future for our marine ecosystems.

The conference explored the potential of artificial intelligence as a driver for sustainable development in the Blue Economy. Contributions emphasised the strategic role of AI in supporting a more sustainable, resilient, and competitive Adriatic region. They also highlighted the importance of research and knowledge dissemination in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and its economic and territorial impacts.

As DIH InnovaMare, we co-organized a joint workshop with the BEYOND and BRIGANTINE projects, including a session on Smart Marine Technologies for the Blue Economy.

The discussion, moderated by our Project Manager Mateo Ivanac, focused on how advanced marine and digital technologies are being implemented to support monitoring, protection, and sustainable management of the Adriatic Sea.  Five experts took part –  Ivan Scagnetto, Riccardo Tumiati, Igor Celić, Neven Cukrov and Michol Ghezzo – their insights highlighted concrete pilot actions and innovative solutions already making an impact in the region. Three of these experts – Mr. Tumiati, Mr. Cukrov and Ms. Ghezzo, also represented our project partners – W&M, IRB and CNR respectively.

We are also proud that our AI expert, Jakov Mozetič, participated in the workshop “The Sea to Monitor and Understand,” contributing valuable expertise on the role of artificial intelligence in advancing marine monitoring and knowledge.

The conference concluded with a strong signal of shared commitment towards a future in which technology, sustainability, and cross-border cooperation are integrated to promote the sustainable development of the Blue Economy in the Adriatic region.

We are eager to continue fostering collaboration, innovation and a more sustainable Blue Economy for the Adriatic Sea.