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The project's primary objective is to raise the qualification levels of both aquaculture professionals (the farmers themselves) and their mentors.

This goal is achieved through an innovative e-learning training model, leveraging digital platforms and video content.

The main activities of the OPTIMA project include:

• Background Study: Conduct detailed studies on bivalve mollusc farming in the project countries, covering farming techniques, environmental impact, and quality labels.
• Benchmarking Study: Integrate the results of the five national context studies into a comprehensive benchmarking report. This foundational document will help identify common challenges, best practices, and innovative solutions in the participating regions, providing a consolidated view of the sector's current status and future potential.
• Bibliographic study: A critical and in-depth review of the scientific literature and existing publications related, first, to the important ecosystem services provided by bivalve mollusc farming and, second, to the potential environmental impacts that may arise from this type of farming.

The primary objective was to build a solid and up-to-date knowledge base, essential for implementing sustainable management practices and adopting strategies to mitigate potential environmental impacts.

Ecosystem services include, but are not limited to, water filtration and the resulting reduction in eutrophication, carbon sequestration from the environment, and the creation of structural habitats due to the hard substrates generated by bivalve mollusc assemblages. Potential environmental impacts, on the other hand, may include alterations in bathymetry and sediment composition, as well as ecological interactions with local biotic communities.

• • Training program development: Creation of customized e-learning programs for operators and tutors, with a focus on best practices in shellfish aquaculture.
  • Digital tools and videos: Development of a platform for mentors and students to share the project's training course and production of informative videos covering the status of bivalve mollusc farming, the main farmed species, certifications, and best farming practices in the five consortium countries.
  • Dissemination: Reach out to a broad audience, including aquaculture farmers, aspiring young people, policymakers, and industry associations, to ensure widespread adoption of improved practices.