On 5 and 6 September 2026, ReLEAF partner Ecopesce participated in Origini 2026 in Cesenatico, Italy, where the project was presented to visitors through an oral presentation and dissemination materials.
Origini is an annual event organised by Ecopesce in collaboration with Chef to Chef Emilia-Romagna Cuochi and with the support of the Municipality of Cesenatico. Held in Piazza Andrea Costa, the 2026 edition focused on local Adriatic fish, the fishing value chain and the maritime traditions of the region. The two-day programme included local producers, cooking activities, workshops, live music and discussions about the relationship between fishing, food, the environment and the local economy.
A central theme of the event was making better use of local fish resources, including species that are less commonly consumed, while recognising the knowledge and work of fishermen and other people involved in the local seafood sector. Activities also introduced visitors to traditional fishing methods, marine biodiversity and sustainable practices for protecting the Adriatic Sea.
This provided a relevant setting for Ecopesce to introduce the work of ReLEAF. The project is investigating how bio-waste streams, including fish processing waste and wastewater, can be used as a source of nutrients and other valuable ingredients for bio-based fertilisers. Ecopesce contributes fish processing residues and wastewater that are being studied within the project for their potential reuse.
During Origini, ReLEAF added another perspective to the discussion on sustainable seafood production by showing how materials that remain after fish processing can have further uses instead of being treated only as waste. According to the event report, the activities helped introduce the project to citizens and explain the possibilities for valorising by-products from the fish industry.
ReLEAF’s participation in Origini 2026 offered an opportunity to discuss these ideas directly with the public and show how research on bio-based fertilisers can connect with existing food production and processing activities in coastal communities.