PEN01: Sustainable upcycling of aquaculture nutrients into circular bio-based solutions

AmpliAqua is developing an integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) system that generates nutrient-rich effluents and algal biomass. Our innovative Recirculating Aquaculture System features a specialized  deionization process to filter water, effectively separating ion-rich discharge (high-nutrient effluent) to a dedicated tank, while ensuring that only clean water returns to the aquaculture system. Despite the high nutrient content of this side stream, it remains largely underutilized in various applications.

Therefore, our primary challenge is to design a sophisticated digital tool that allows for matching and adjusting the profile of the collected effluent with viable applications, particularly in the realm of bioponic agriculture (such as basil and arugula), where precise nutrient requirements are well-documented and understood.  Participants in this challenge will focus on several key tasks:  

• Mapping the biochemical potential: Identifying and documenting the biochemical composition of AmpliAqua’s nutrient-rich effluents, including essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), pH levels, and micronutrients, based on the data to be provided;  
• Developing a matching database: Creating a comprehensive database or algorithm that aligns the effluent profiles with the specific nutrient requirements of target crops (basil and arugula), ensuring optimal growth conditions;  
• Assessing environmental impacts: Evaluating the environmental benefits and potential trade-offs of different valorization pathways, including comparing methods such as fertigation and bioplastic production;  
• Proposing a business model: Crafting a robust business use case or service model that ensures both the technical feasibility and economic viability of the proposed solutions.

This challenge combines real-world aquaculture data with sustainability science, and product innovation to deliver a scalable  solution aimed at transforming aquaculture byproducts into valuable agricultural inputs and intelligence.

During the 48-hour hackathon, we aim to produce a prototype of a digital tool, which could take the form of an algorithm, database, or web-based application, designed specifically to connect aquaculture effluent profiles with circular economy applications. This tool will concentrate on enhancing plant nutrition through the utilization of real data derived from nutrient-rich effluents, focusing particularly on the cultivation of basil and arugula within our IMTA system. Anticipated outputs will include:

- Matching logic/ algorithm: A well-defined mechanism that correlates the composition of effluents with the nutrient demands of various crops, ensuring that each plant receives exactly what it needs for optimal growth;
- Visual dashboard/interface: A user-friendly visual dashboard or interface that empowers producers and innovators to make informed decisions based on real-time data and insights.



- To launch an entrepreneurial project
- Contributing to innovation in the maritime sector
- To explore an innovative idea using marine data

data analyst, IT developer, marine biologist, agrononomist