At the forefront for the sea

"More and more companies working with marine resources"

It is crucial for us humans that we start using the oceans in a sustainable way. Contributing to this is a mission for Innovatum Science Park and, not least, the project leader in blue bioeconomy, Fredrik Grund.

- "It's exciting because we at Innovatum are constantly working at the forefront and working with companies and entrepreneurs who have new ideas and solutions to problems," he says.

The state of our oceans is poor in many places and this impacts on us as humans, affecting our quality of life, economy and livelihoods. The oceans provide us with oxygen, a climate we can live in, food and other raw materials. They are also important for our recreation, leisure and health.

From sea scout to project manager
Fredrik Grund's interest in the sea has been a common thread since childhood. Snorkeling, sea scouts, free diving, sailing and kayaking expeditions both near and far. The sea prepared Fredrik Grund for the role he has today.

- This is how I developed my leadership skills, by taking people out into nature and showing them what's out there and managing themselves, the group and the environment. It also requires a certain amount of orderliness that comes in handy in my current role.

Sustainability aspects are crucial
A lot is happening in the field of blue bioeconomy both in Sweden and around Europe and the world. For Innovatum Science Park, it is about supporting companies and innovations that can lead to sustainable development and sustainable use of marine resources.

- We are seeing more ideas and businesses around marine bioresources. It's about making better use of what we take out of the sea, but also innovative ways of farming fish in recirculated systems on land and growing seaweed and mussels in the sea, for example. Materials from the sea are also interesting. There are development opportunities in areas such as bio-based materials, dyes and bioactive substances for various applications.

Industrial technology can boost the industry
Innovatum Science Park is tasked with developing collaboration on the biomarine industry in the region and is running several projects with a main focus on marine biotechnology and marine food, as well as the digitization of various processes and systems in the field. For example, how AI can be used to utilize more of the fish that is landed and new technology to read how the fish feel during cultivation.

- My hope is to work even more with companies in the sector and make a real difference, from connecting companies with researchers, or with public institutions such as kitchens to test different products on a larger scale. Our role is to bring together stakeholders and contribute what companies cannot do themselves to develop.