RootLinks contributed to the Workshop hosted by AquaBioTech Group, engaging stakeholders on innovation and sustainability in the seafood sector.

RootLinks was presented at the Second Malta Seafood Industry Workshop, hosted on 30 January 2026 by project partner AquaBioTech Group as part of the Malta Living Lab activities.

The workshop brought together governance representatives and aquaculture experts to address key challenges and innovation opportunities across Malta’s seafood supply chain. The event showcased three EU funded initiatives, including RootLinks, alongside FishEUTrust and EUFish SustainableGrowth.

RootLinks was presented to local stakeholders as a platform supporting collaboration, systems thinking, and action oriented engagement across the bioeconomy and aquatic sectors.

Structured breakout sessions focused on three priority themes:

• Digital traceability, addressing supply chain gaps through tools, standards, and incentives
• Sustainable circular practices, including bycatch valorisation and funding pathways
• Consumer engagement, exploring campaigns, events, and awareness building approaches

The strong participation of governance stakeholders and technical experts in the event enabled productive discussions and the co creation of practical recommendations and pilot ideas.

This workshop represents an important occasion for RootLinks, contributing to ongoing dialogue on innovation, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement in the blue economy.

RootLinks invites primary producers and supporting organisations to share their expertise through a brief stakeholder survey informing practical actions in the circular bioeconomy.

RootLinks is building a vibrant and committed community to strengthen the role of the primary sector in the circular bio-based economy. Our goal is to empower primary producers to adopt innovation and to reinforce their connections with industry, research, and policy.

To achieve this, RootLinks actively supports the CBE JU Working Group on Primary Producers (WGPP) in the co-creation of a dedicated Action Plan. This plan focuses on concrete, hands-on actions that deliver real and measurable impact for the primary sector. During the lifetime of the RootLinks project, these actions will be tested, validated, and implemented in practice.

A key element of this work is bringing together existing knowledge, tools, project results, and innovative initiatives. By connecting what already exists and what is emerging, we aim to provide better, more targeted support to primary producers and to maximise the overall impact of the bioeconomy.

If you are a primary producer, cooperative, producer organisation, association, network, or advisory service, and you want to contribute your expertise, we invite you to get involved.

Take a few minutes to complete our stakeholder identification form!

Tell us who you are, how you can contribute, and how we can best connect with you as RootLinks moves forward.

Please note that completion of this survey should not be considered an application for membership in the CBE JU Working Group on Primary Producers. Further information on how to apply is available here.

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Photo by Dylan Gillis on Unsplash