The BlueRev project, a collaborative effort to foster the development and implementation of sustainable and innovative blue bio-based sectors across Europe, recognizes the importance of establishing a robust data collection protocol to effectively assess the current state and future potential of these sectors. Deliverable 3.2 (D3.2) addresses this crucial aspect by outlining a comprehensive protocol and methodology for data collection in the baseline assessment of target blue bio-based sectors across three pilot regions in Europe.
The protocol, designed to ensure the accuracy, reliability, validity, relevance, and usefulness of the collected data, encompasses three main stages: i) State of the art assessment: This initial phase involves conducting interviews with key stakeholders to gather insights into the current landscape of social innovation, governance, and business models within the blue bio-based sectors; ii) In-depth information gathering: Through a combination of workshops, focus group discussions, and targeted interviews, this stage delves deeper into specific aspects of the blue bio-based sectors, gaining granular understanding of challenges, opportunities, and potential solutions; iii) Validation of co-created solutions: The final stage involves further engagement with stakeholders through workshops, focus groups, and interviews to validate the effectiveness of co-created solutions in addressing identified challenges and fostering sustainable growth in the blue bio-based sectors.
The protocol's implementation extends across three distinct pilot regions, each with its unique characteristics and challenges:
Denmark and Greenland: The focus in these regions is on addressing challenges related to funding, sustainability, regulation, competition, talent development, geography, business plans, and access to raw materials.
Estonia (Saaremaa): The key challenges in this region include raising awareness of the blue bioeconomy's potential, addressing the underutilization of blue bioresources, overcoming the lack of human resources, and tackling infrastructure challenges.
Italy (Sicily): The challenges in this region center on the circular economy process, the need for infrastructure development, gaps in the connection between production and end-users, and the requirement for sustainable fish waste management.
To effectively assess the current state and future potential of the blue bio-based sectors in these pilot regions, the protocol employs a range of analytical tools and methodologies such as Key Interests' Analysis, Transformation And Agents (Catwoe) Analysis, Social Innovation analysis, LCA, Business Models and governance framework analysis.
In conclusion, Deliverable 3.2 establishes a comprehensive and strategic approach to understanding, evaluating, and advancing the blue bio-based sectors in the selected pilot regions. By addressing the WHAT, WHO, and HOW of data collection, BlueRev aims to contribute substantially to the development and replication of effective governance and business models, fostering sustainability and innovation in the blue bioeconomy across Europe. The project's findings will serve as valuable insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for the blue bioeconomy.