The aim of the project is clear: to develop a comprehensive environmental traceability system capable of tackling fraud, environmental impacts, marine litter and waste generation throughout the value chain. Through a multidisciplinary approach, SMART4SEA aims to boost consumer confidence in sustainable products whilst supporting the sector’s transition towards more responsible practices.
A strong, transnational consortium
The project brings together 10 partners (clusters, research centres, universities and industry representatives) from 4 countries: Ireland, France, Portugal and Spain. This European collaboration will combine scientific, technological and sector-specific expertise. The project will run from October 2025 to February 2028.
The five main expected outcomes of the project
1. A digital traceability system for seafood products
SMART4SEA will develop a comprehensive ICT infrastructure, connecting fishing vessels, ports and processing industries. Thanks to the IoT and blockchain technology, data will flow in real time, reliably and securely, ensuring complete transparency regarding the journey of seafood products.
2. Environmental indicators based on real-world data
The project will build a dynamic life-cycle inventory incorporating operational data: carbon footprint, water, eutrophication, ecotoxicity, food loss, plastic footprint, etc. These indicators will help identify concrete levers for improvement towards more sustainable production.
3. Better consumer information through smart tools
SMART4SEA will develop smart labels and a digital platform to provide clear, scientific and accessible information on the environmental performance of products. The aim is to build trust, encourage responsible choices and support committed producers.
4. Waste recovery solutions for a circular blue economy
The project will produce operational tools and policy recommendations to reduce food waste and recover organic and plastic waste. A compendium of proven circular models and multi-criteria decision-making tools will assist stakeholders in their strategic choices.
5. A solid scientific basis on microplastics and food safety
Reliable data will be collected on the presence of microplastics, their impact on nutritional quality and potential health risks. This knowledge will be integrated into the SMART4SEA platform to inform and raise awareness among consumers.
A European initiative for a more sustainable sea
With SMART4SEA, the seafood sector stands to benefit from an ambitious project that combines technology, science, the circular economy and transparency. Valorial will play an active role in disseminating the results, engaging stakeholders and sharing best practices at European level.
