The SEACURE project is currently in its first year of implementation. During these initial months, efforts have been primarily focused on analyzing the regional innovation ecosystems related to nutrient pollution. This has involved mapping and engaging with key stakeholders across four main sectors: academia, the public sector (regulatory bodies and policymakers), the private sector (industry representatives), and civil society (NGOs and potential end-users).
A comprehensive SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) has been carried out within each of the six territorial units to identify systemic challenges and innovation potential. Multi-stakeholder roundtables have taken place in all six units, enabling an in-depth, systemic assessment of the multifaceted problem of nutrient pollution, examining drivers, pressures, and impacts from various disciplinary and sectoral perspectives.
The project's demonstration sites are currently in the initial phase of designing and deploying the proposed solutions. This stage includes obtaining the necessary permits and preparing the sites for full implementation. In some cases, preliminary results from lab-scale testing of the solutions are already available, and these early findings are promising.
For the multicriteria feasibility assessment, the KPIs that will guide the techno-economic evaluations, societal acceptance studies, and environmental assessments have been identified. In parallel, the baseline for the nutrient budget analysis has also been defined.
Additionally, the main inputs for the development of the Multi-Criteria Decision Support Tool, as well as the baseline for the Open Call, have been established during these first months.
Finally, during these months, the project's communication strategy, visual identity, and website have been developed. The first communication and dissemination activities have already started.