The aim of this project is to support the relevant authorities in the Mediterranean region as well as UNEP/MAP for (sub)regional cooperation useful in preparing for the next 6-year implementation cycle of the MSFD – Marine Strategy Framework Directive, through the establishment of working protocols, organization of meetings, workshops, expert platforms and synergies with other projects and initiatives aimed at promoting working groups of EU and UNEP/MAP experts.
Invasive alien species (IAS) and climate change require the development of new capacities to protect the natural capital and manage the rapid transformation of natural resources. The project proposes the development of an integrated and shared approach to studying this issue. The goal will be pursued through technical and technological advances supported by studies to improve the information management and the use of IAS as a potential economic resource
The project explores the influence of maritime activities on MPAs in the Mediterranean, and provides recommendations for MPA managers, MSP authorities, and businesses on how to prevent or minimize the environmental impacts of certain sectors of the blue economy.
To provide national and EU administrations, as well as regional-level fisheries management bodies such as the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) and the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna (ICCAT), with scientific data and appropriate tools to undertake programming interventions and adopt management measures in line with the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
Implement innovative solutions and projects to support the competitive development of fisheries, aquaculture and the blue economy, paying attention to the protection of marine resources and ecosystems.
The research activities of the Institute are carried out in the context of research, development and innovation projects, both national and international, based on regional funding programs (POR FEAMPA - Regional Operational Program of the European Maritime Affairs Fisheries Fund and Aquaculture and POR FESR - Regional Operational Program of the European Regional Development Fund) or ministerial (PRIN - Projects of relevant national interest, PNRA - National Research Program in Antarctica, PO FEAMPA - National Operational Program European Maritime Affairs Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund) , programs for European Territorial Cooperation (Interreg), direct funding programs of the European Commission (Horizon2020 and Horizon Europe, Life, JPI - Joint Programming Initiatives, ERA-NET Cofund) and thematic collaboration initiatives managed by international organizations such as, for example , the FAO - GFCM (General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean). The Institute also develops funded projects in the context of collaborations with private companies in the sectors of the blue economy as well as technology transfer and research results. Research projects, mainly of a collaborative nature, are developed through a wide network of partners that include major Italian and foreign research institutions and universities.