7 April 2026

The project Network for the Preservation of Sturgeon and the Sustainability of the Black Sea Basin Ecosystem is organizing an international workshop aimed at fostering networking and raising awareness.

The event will present the current status of the SturNet project, including its objectives, activities, and preliminary results. Participants will also be introduced to the project’s web platform (https://www.sturnet.eu), which will feature the launch of the SturNet mobile application and the Digital Mapping Tool. The latter includes thematic maps of sturgeon feeding and breeding areas, as well as the methodology used to integrate environmental and biological data into GIS-based products that support habitat assessment and management decision-making.

In addition, a dedicated session will facilitate the exchange of good practices and the identification of synergies among relevant initiatives. This will include a special session linked to the Horizon Europe MARBEFES project.

27-29 April 2026

Researchers, academics, and practitioners are invited to submit papers to the International Scientific Conference “Smart Solutions in Urban and Rural Resilience”, which will take place in Kutaisi, Georgia, from 27–29 April 2026.

The conference is organized within the framework of the project Smart and Innovative Solutions for Green and Clean Rural Areas in the Black Sea Basin. It aims to provide an international platform for sharing research results, innovative approaches, and best practices that strengthen urban and rural resilience, with a particular focus on smart, sustainable, and circular solutions.

The conference welcomes research papers, case studies, and practical contributions addressing (but not limited to) the following topics:

• Urban and Rural Resilience: Concepts and frameworks for urban and rural resilience; Climate adaptation and mitigation strategies; Resilient communities and local governance
• Smart and Sustainable Waste Management: Smart solutions for municipal and rural waste management; Composting technologies and organic waste treatment; Circular economy approaches in urban and rural areas
• Innovative Environmental and Digital Technologies: Digital and smart technologies for environmental protection; IoT, data-driven solutions, and monitoring systems; Innovation in environmental infrastructure
• Sustainable Development and Circular Economy: Circular economy models for cities and rural regions; Resource efficiency and sustainable consumption; Policy instruments supporting circular development
• Urban–Rural Synergies: Integrated urban–rural development models; Knowledge transfer and best practices between urban and rural areas; Smart territorial planning and regional resilience
• Climate Change and Environmental Protection: Climate-resilient waste management systems; Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through composting; Nature-based solutions and ecosystem services; Renewable energy systems
• Education, Awareness, and Capacity Building: Environmental education and community engagement; Capacity building for local authorities and stakeholders; Role of universities in promoting sustainability and resilience
• Case Studies and Best Practices from BSB Countries and Beyond: Successful implementations of smart resilience solutions; Regional and international case studies; Lessons learned from the Black Sea Basin and beyond

Paper Submission Guidelines

Full papers should be 6–10 pages, including references.

Papers must be written in English and should follow the official conference paper template.

The paper structure should include: Title and author(s) information; Abstract and keywords; Introduction; Methodology; Results and Discussion; Conclusions; References

Click here to download the paper template.

Paper Submission

Papers in Word and PDF formats should be submitted via email to:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Full paper submission deadline: 10 April 2026

28 April 2026

The project Innovative joint learning for environmental-friendly behaviour of communities in the Black Sea Basin, invites you to TUrkuaZLA – a vibrant spring festival at Piri Reis University, featuring engaging LEARN4SEA experiences.

On April 28th, 2026, Piri Reis University Turkiye will welcome approximately 600 middle school students to TUrkuaZLA (“with turquoise”), a lively and inspiring spring festival dedicated to marine awareness and environmental action.
The event will bring together education, innovation, and fun through a diverse program of activities focused on protecting our seas. As part of this exciting experience, the LEARN4SEA project will contribute interactive and immersive elements, including educational videos, a VR-based training scenario, and an engaging game designed to inspire young minds.
With the support of the Tuzla District Directorate of National Education, Tuzla Municipality, and various NGOs, as well as the active involvement of Piri Reis University student clubs (Music, Maritime, Environmental, and more), the festival will offer a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere.
Participants will also witness real-life marine cleanup efforts, including demonstrations using a marine drone and aerial footage captured with a drone provided through the LEARN4SEA project. To make the experience even more memorable, special LEARN4SEA promotional materials will be shared with all attendees.
TUrkuaZLA promises to be a day full of learning, discovery, and inspiration, where the next generation connects with the ocean and becomes part of the solution.

For more information, please contact the organizer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..