On 9 December 2025, a ceremonial scientific meeting was held in Šibenik at the “Civitas Sacra” interpretation centre to mark the 45th anniversary of the Martinska Research Station, part of the Ruđer Bošković Institute (IRB) ecosystem for marine and environmental research.

During the opening, representatives of local and regional authorities highlighted the importance of protecting the Adriatic and strengthening long-term cooperation between science, public authorities, and the private sector. The programme included a retrospective of Martinska’s research legacy and presentations of ongoing projects in marine science by researchers and partners from multiple Croatian institutions and international collaborators.

Importantly for our community, SeaTecHub was explicitly mentioned among the international initiatives supporting innovation and sustainability in the Adriatic, alongside other recognised projects. This acknowledgment underlines the shared regional commitment to develop and deploy eco-innovative solutions—connecting research excellence with real needs in coastal governance, industry, and society.

Events like the Martinska anniversary are a strong example of the ecosystem approach SeaTecHub promotes—bringing together research organisations, authorities, and industry to translate scientific knowledge into impact and practical innovation pathways.

The Mayor Paško Rakić underlined that Šibenik-Knin County consistently ranks among Croatia’s leading counties in investments in environmental and marine protection, stressing that:

“The sea is not only the foundation of our identity and economic development, but it is also key to a quality, healthy life and a safe and sustainable future. Today, more than ever before, the Adriatic Sea is facing numerous challenges – from pollution to mass tourism pressure. That is why the County actively participates in a number of internationally recognized projects dedicated to the preservation and sustainability of the Adriatic, while encouraging the development of innovative technologies through projects such as SeaTecHub, ROBONETCBC, Innovamare and DIH Innovamare.”

SeaTecHub is proud to be highlighted among initiatives supporting Adriatic sustainability, cross-border collaboration, and the development of innovative blue technologies.