On November 6, a key event for the future of Spain’s blue economy took place: the first official meeting of the Spanish Network of Knowledge Spaces for the Blue Economy (REECEA). This initiative, led by the General Secretariat for Fisheries of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, marks the beginning of a collaborative space designed to connect science, innovation, and tradition around the sea.
The Universitat Politècnica de València was represented by Professor Miguel Jover Cerdà, who contributed academic and technological insight to the discussions.
An Open Network Aimed at Transforming the Sector
The REECEA presents itself as an open, participatory, and inclusive community, welcoming all entities and organizations connected to the blue economy. Its mission is clear: to strengthen knowledge, innovation, and sustainability within a sector that plays a crucial role in Spain’s social and economic structure.
During the meeting, the General Secretary for Fisheries and president of the network, Isabel Artime, highlighted a central idea:
“There is no blue economy without the fisheries and aquaculture sector, which is its driving force and the foundation of its transformation.”
According to Artime, the REECEA aims to be a meeting point where science, innovation, and tradition work hand in hand “for a more sustainable, competitive, and fair sea.”
Shared Workstreams and Common Challenges
Representatives from various Knowledge Spaces for the Blue Economy (ECEA) presented their main work lines and opportunities for future collaboration. Some of the most relevant topics discussed included:
- The importance of knowledge transfer between scientific, technological, business, and fisheries sectors.
- The need to promote innovation across all stages of the production chain.
- The role of the REECEA as a platform to create joint consortia and collaborative projects involving public administration, research centres, and civil society.
The meeting concluded with an important agreement: the network will officially open to any interested entity, reinforcing its inclusive nature and spirit of cooperation.
What Comes Next?
With this first meeting, the REECEA officially begins its journey. Its main mission will be to strengthen collaboration between the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, public administrations, scientific institutions, and technological entities involved in the blue economy.
There is also an important date to note:
the first plenary session Will be in 2026, and it will serve to present progress, results, and new projects arising from collaboration between the Knowledge Spaces and the General Secretariat for Fisheries.