UNIZAG FSB: Engineering Sustainability for the Future of Mediterranean Aquaculture
Founded in 1919, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture of the University of Zagreb (UNIZAG FSB) is Croatia’s leading institution for education, research, and innovation in mechanical engineering, naval architecture, aerospace engineering, and mechatronics and robotics. With over 2,500 students, 54 laboratories, and a strong connection to industry, UNIZAG FSB bridges theory and practice — training engineers to develop technologies that power a sustainable and competitive future.
As the Lead Partner of AquaBioNets, FSB brings its deep expertise in marine engineering, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability to the forefront of Mediterranean aquaculture innovation. The Faculty combines academic excellence with applied research, ensuring that the project’s solutions are both scientifically sound and practically viable.
🐟 Engineering Innovation for Sustainable Aquaculture
Within AquaBioNets, UNIZAG FSB leads the project’s coordination and provides scientific and technical guidance to ensure that the development and testing of biodegradable aquaculture nets follow rigorous engineering and environmental standards. The Faculty’s Chair of Marine Engineering, known for its pioneering work in ship energy systems and lifecycle assessment, applies its analytical tools and sustainability methodologies to optimize materials and processes used in aquaculture.
Through this approach, FSB strengthens the project’s technological foundation — helping to design aquaculture systems that are not only environmentally friendly but also energy-efficient, economically resilient, and ready for real-world implementation.
🌊 A Team Driving Change
The AquaBioNets team at UNIZAG FSB is led by Prof. Nikola Vladimir, Head of the Chair of Marine Engineering, whose research spans ship energy systems, floating structures, and environmental impact assessment. He has contributed to numerous international projects funded by Horizon Europe, Interreg, EMFF, and other major programmes and has published more than 250 scientific papers.
He is joined by Dr. Marija Koričan, whose research focuses on ship energy efficiency, decarbonisation, and the socio-economic aspects of sustainable maritime operations. A recipient of the 2023 MedFish4Ever Award (FAO–GFCM), Dr. Koričan contributes her expertise in sustainable fishing and aquaculture practices to the AquaBioNets mission.
Together, they lead a team of experts committed to integrating sustainability principles into every stage of aquaculture development — from energy use and materials to lifecycle performance and policy support.
♻️ Beyond AquaBioNets: Leading the Green Transition
UNIZAG FSB’s leadership in AquaBioNets builds on its long-standing involvement in national and international research focused on decarbonisation, renewable energy, and green innovation.
The Faculty currently contributes to projects such as GREENROUTES and GREEN-PRO, which promote carbon-neutral shipping, and E-TANDEM, which explores e-fuels from renewable energy and CO₂.
Through initiatives like IN AQUA and SEAVIEWS, UNIZAG FSB also supports cleaner aquaculture operations and marine pollution prevention — reinforcing its role as a regional hub for sustainable blue growth.
🌎 Looking Ahead with AquaBioNets
Through AquaBioNets, UNIZAG FSB aims to strengthen collaboration between research institutions, industry, and policymakers to accelerate the transition toward sustainable aquaculture and a resilient blue economy.
By integrating engineering innovation with environmental responsibility, FSB will help shape new technologies and approaches that redefine how aquaculture operates in the Mediterranean — cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable than ever before.
