As part of a Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme 2014-2020, Highlands and Islands Enterprise are collaborating with Nofima a renowned aquaculture, fisheries and food research institute, based in Tromsø, in North Norway and the Iceland Ocean Cluster which connects entrepreneurs, businesses and knowledge in the marine industries on a transnational project called DisruptAqua. The project aims to understand how new technologies can be used by businesses in the Highlands and Islands and elsewhere in the Northern periphery to add value to their commercial activities.

‘DisruptAqua’ explores what specific ICT technologies are most suitable for seafood businesses, (salmon, shellfish and seaweed producers and processors) and their wider supply chains by examining the benefits and barriers and the route to practical application.

The conference will explore how full blockchain traceability of high value seafood products through the supply chain from primary producer to consumer can add value that is associated to provenance, environmental stewardship, and increasing quality and trust, particularly by SMEs in remote and sparsely populated areas.

We will also share the research and the experiences of international partners and participants on how blockchain can be used by businesses to add-value to their products and help accelerate the transition towards sustainable production.

Attendance is free of charge, however delegates will be responsible for their own travel and accommodation

Draft Agenda

13:30 Welcome – HIE

13:40 DisruptAqua – HIE

13:50 Introduction to Blockchain – Nofima

14:10 Outline of Final Nofima DisruptAqua Report – Nofima

14:20 Case study 1

14:40 Case study 2

15:00 Case Study 3

15:20 Break

15:30 Datalab Update and funding – Datalab

15:45 International Blockchain Network – Nofima

15:55 Panel Session

16:10 Breakout sessions

17:00 Feedback

19:00 Pre dinner Reception

19:30 Delegate Dinner

21:30 Close of Conference