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On April 29, Ilia State University successfully deployed a research buoy in the Black Sea, within the designated area of the Poti Port, Georgia. This milestone is part of the EfxINNOs project – Establishing and Operating an Innovative Marine Technology Transfer Network for Enhancing the Transition to a Sustainable Blue Economy in the Black Sea Basin – funded by the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin Programme and co-financed by the European Union.

The project at Ilia State University is coordinated by Professor Ketevan Kupatadze.

The buoy is equipped with modern sensors to monitor key environmental parameters, including:

• Water temperature
• Salinity
• Conductivity
• Chlorophyll concentration
• Oxygen concentration
• Oxygen saturation
• Biological oxygen demand (BOD)

Data collection has already begun, marking a significant advancement in marine research. The information gathered will enable in-depth analysis of the Black Sea ecosystem and support the development of evidence-based environmental policies.

The broader aim of the project is to develop and operate a cost-effective, innovative, and sustainable network of marine monitoring platforms. With partners from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey, and Georgia, the project fosters regional cooperation and contributes to the growth of marine innovation across the Black Sea region.

With a total budget of €1,643,648.40, the initiative represents an important step forward for Georgia and the entire Black Sea Basin—bridging scientific research, education, and environmental sustainability to support the development of a robust blue economy.

2025