Speakers
Elena Martínez Martínez
CTO and Co-founder of grupo SOS (SOS Biotech and SOS Carbon)
She is an oceanographer specializing in biotechnology and the blue economy. As co-founder of Grupo SOS, she focuses on harnessing invasive algae through applied biotechnology to develop agricultural products, cosmetics, and biomaterials aimed at decarbonization and sustainable economic and social growth.
Session:
- BC02 · Living Resources, Invasive Algae and Circular Solutions
BC02 · Living Resources, Invasive Algae, and Circular Solutions
The proliferation of invasive algae such as Rugulopteryx okamurae on the Andalusian coast and other areas of the Mediterranean currently represents a major environmental, tourism, fishing, and economic challenge. Its impact is felt directly on beaches, artisanal fishing, and the quality of the landscape, affecting local development and the tourist experience in coastal municipalities.
This round table proposes to address this issue from a blue circular economy perspective, promoted by municipalities and aligned with the Andalusian Strategy for a Sustainable Blue Economy, which clearly envisages the valorization of marine biomass as an engine for development. Through dialogue between affected municipalities, start-ups, administrations, and European experts, innovative solutions will be presented to transform this threat into biofuels, natural fertilizers, regenerative materials, or new industries linked to the blue bioeconomy.