Robot boat launched in Croatia to fight microplastics in the Adriatic
- by croatiaweek
- in News

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The successful collaboration between academia and industry, aimed at creating innovations for the benefit of the wider community, was highlighted today in the Croatian city of Pula with the unveiling of the Jadranko v1.0 project.
This robotic boat, named Jadranko, is the product of students and experts from the Istrian University of Applied Sciences.
Designed to collect and analyse microplastics in the sea—a critical ecological challenge of our time—the project received support from partners Calucem and Infobip.
The launch of Jadranko marks a pivotal step in tackling this dangerous phenomenon, which poses a threat to marine ecosystems and human health alike.

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“Our Jadranko is the result of effort, hard work, investment, and dedication. It will make a tangible difference to the environment in which we live and work, and beyond.
Through this project, which offers a solution to the growing global challenge of microplastics in the sea, we have once again demonstrated that students at the Istrian University of Applied Sciences acquire remarkable knowledge and experience during their studies, which they will later build upon in their careers.
Patrik, Luka, Lucija, Domagoj, Emil, and Ener can be proud to be, or soon become, part of something larger than all of us—a part of scientific history,” said Dr Daglas Koraca, Dean of the Istrian University of Applied Sciences.

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The Threat of Microplastics
Microplastics are a serious global issue, increasingly found in marine organisms, including fish and shellfish consumed daily from the Adriatic Sea.
Research suggests that humans ingest approximately five grams of plastic per week—the equivalent of a credit card’s weight.
To mitigate this negative impact, Jadranko employs advanced technologies developed through collaboration between academic and industrial partners.
These solutions not only contribute to environmental preservation but also inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists to address global challenges.

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“As a company with over a century-long presence in Pula, we are deeply aware of our responsibility towards the community. Through our corporate social responsibility programme, we support projects that promote education, environmental preservation, and the development of the local community.
The Jadranko robot exemplifies a collaboration that combines innovation with environmental responsibility while supporting education and involving young people in significant projects shaping our future,” stated representatives from Calucem, whose factory hosted the official launch ceremony.
Future Development of Jadranko
The project’s leader, Associate Professor Dr Vedrana Špada, outlined the next stages for Jadranko’s development, planned over the coming two years.
The Jadranko v2.0 phase will focus on developing an autonomous vessel capable of collecting both microplastics and macroplastics along the coastline, with sample analysis conducted at the METRIS Research Centre of the Istrian University of Applied Sciences.
The final phase, Jadranko v3.0, will involve continuous sampling of microplastics, detailed analyses, and presenting results to the scientific and professional communities.
This project represents a significant step towards a sustainable future, offering innovative solutions to combat microplastics and protect the environment.
Beyond the borders of Croatia, the initiative exemplifies how science can address global environmental challenges. To support further development and nurture young talent through scholarships and internships, Calucem has provided over €50,000 in funding.

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METRIS Research Centre
The METRIS Research Centre at the Istrian University of Applied Sciences plays a strategic role in implementing EU and national research and development projects.
By enhancing material and product quality, supporting small and medium enterprises, and promoting science and STEM fields, METRIS enriches the university’s curriculum.
It also provides unique opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience during their studies. With cutting-edge technology and expert staff, METRIS stands at the forefront of Croatian science, attracting numerous business partners and solidifying industry collaborations.
Calucem: A Century of Industrial Tradition
With 158 employees and over 100 years of operations, Calucem is an integral part of the industrial heritage of Pula and Istria. The company exports 100% of its production, serving customers in over 60 countries. With an innovation centre in Barcelona and an extensive network of sales offices and distribution centres across Europe, the USA, and Asia, Calucem is committed to the community and its employees. Projects like the Jadranko robot embody Calucem’s vision of building a sustainable future for all.