SGS Takes Part in OPTIMA Project

Embarking on a new project, SGS joins OPTIMA, a pioneering initiative intervening in the context of blue growth and sustainability. OPTIMA aims to raise the qualification and competence levels of aquaculture professionals and their mentors in the sector, with special reference to shellfish farming, through an innovative e-learning training model, led by mentors who can follow students digitally using the platform and videos produced by the project.

Activities to be carried out by the project include:

• Conducting a background study on bivalve mollusc aquaculture in each country: farming techniques, environmental impact, quality labels.
• Completion of one reference study compiling the background studies.
• Completion of one bibliographic study on the environmental impact and ecosystem services of bivalve mollusc aquaculture.
• Development of a training program for mentors
• Development of a training program for workers
• Creation of a video for each country of the consortium: good practices in bivalve mollusc aquaculture
• Creation of a final video
• Creation of a web platform
• Carrying out two pilot tests of the training program

OPTIMA's target groups include trainers/mentors linked to the bivalve mollusc aquaculture sector, aquaculturists, young people preparing to enter the sector, policy makers, stakeholder representatives, private production companies, professional associations, cooperatives, public and private training centers, research centers and local, regional, national, and European public bodies with environmental and training scope.

In addition, OPTIMA will establish a stakeholder network composed of policy makers, shellfish producers' cooperatives, shellfish aquaculture sector associations, and public and private training centers in the maritime area. This will serve as a reference point for a background study conducted in each country involved, drawing on the partners' prior knowledge and seeking information to identify needs and analyze the state of the shellfish farming sector in the participating countries.

The consortium that promotes the OPTIMA project, with M.A.R.E. Soc. Coop (Italy) as coordinator, is made up of IFA Aquaculture (Ireland), the National Committee of Conchyliculture, CNC (France), the Consello Regulador do Mexillón de Galicia, CRMG (Spain), SGS TECNOS (Spain) and IDEC (Greece). Together, these organizations are committed to shaping a sustainable future for seafood farming, addressing the sector's challenges through innovation and education.

OPTIMA started with a kick-off meeting in October 2023 and is scheduled to conclude in April 2026.

The OPTIMA project, identified by project number 2023-1-IT01-KA220-VET-000158681, has been funded with support from the European Commission. This publication reflects the views of SGS only, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

For further information, please contact:

Elena Tylko
Project Manager and Area Coordinator
Environment, Health and Safety
t: +34 659363437