On 25 November 2025, 72 aquaculture stakeholders gathered in Montpellier for the 3rd French LiRRIE, organised by Pôle Mer Méditerranée with Cépralmar and the CRCM as part of the European AZA4ICE project (Interreg Euro-MED). The event took place at the Cité de l’Économie et des Métiers de Demain.
Focus on the Thau Lagoon and Diversification
The day opened with an overview of the Etang de Thau socio-ecosystem and its climate challenges, presented by CRCM. Cépralmar then shared results from testing the C-AZA spatial planning method, which supports circular and ecosystem-based aquaculture.
Experts presented promising diversification pathways for the region, including:
– Offshore mussel farming
– Sea cucumber production
– Flat oyster initiatives
– Oyster–seaweed co-cultivation
Building a Sustainable Aquaculture Action Plan
Participants were invited to co-develop an action plan for sustainable and circular aquaculture. A presentation by IRD introduced future scenarios, followed by examples of innovation: integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, the Seavolution oyster sustainability project, and territorial planning in the Thau Basin.
Climate Change and Adaptation
Ifremer highlighted the COCORICO project, which studies climate impacts on oysters and mussels. This session enabled discussion of potential adaptation strategies for the sector.
Funding Opportunities
The event concluded with presentations on GALPA initiatives in Thau and European funding options for aquaculture innovation.
A Collaborative Step Forward
The LiRRIE brought together farmers, scientists, public authorities, technical experts, trainers, and students. Participants explored new opportunities, shared challenges, and worked collectively toward more sustainable and circular aquaculture practices in the Mediterranean.
