On 5 August 2025, under the umbrella of the 21st European Symposium on Fluorine Chemistry (ESFC LISBON), the MAR2PROTECT project will host its Mid-Term Event in Lisbon, Portugal. This event marks the halfway point of the project and offers a unique opportunity to present the technologies and results developed to a broader audience.

The event will showcase the intersection of science, policy, and innovation, with a special focus on PFAS management and environmental sustainability. To enrich the dialogue and expand the impact, MAR2PROTECT has partnered with the ALERT-PFAS and Life4Gases initiatives to co-organize a series of multi-stakeholder panel discussions, thematic sessions, and interactive activities bringing together experts, policy makers, industrial leaders and general public.

The programme will begin with a panel discussion that will be structured in two distinct blocks, reflecting both industrial concerns and broader public interests. The first block will focus on policy frameworks, regulatory responses, and climate governance strategies aimed at mitigating PFAS impacts. The second block will explore innovative approaches to developing sustainable PFAS alternatives that balance industrial needs with environmental and human health priorities.

On the afternoon of August 5, following the PFAS Panel Discussion, a dedicated session titled Funding Opportunities will provide valuable insights into upcoming calls and funding schemes from major EU programmes. This will be followed by a Research Open Space, offering a platform to showcase ongoing initiatives and foster potential partnerships through networking and collaboration.

Simultaneously, a range of public-oriented activities will take place at the Open Fun Hall, featuring games, cinema, and engaging experiences designed to captivate audiences of all ages. Through interactive explorations, these activities aim to inspire the next generation of researchers. This will also be a unique opportunity for the wider public to discover the outcomes of years of collaboration across various projects.

Registration remains open. The full agenda, along with speaker information, can be found here.

In addition, MAR2PROTECT will hold its Annual Meeting on 31 July and 1 August 2025, just prior to the Mid-Term Event. Project partners will gather to present progress updates from each demo site and discuss upcoming activities across all work packages.

From July 14–17, 2025, MAR2PROTECT participated in FEMS MICRO 2025. the Europe’s premier congress and exhibition dedicated to microbial research and collaboration, held this year in Milan.

This international event, themed “Magnifying Microbial Impact,” brought together leading researchers, practitioners, and industry experts. It aimed to go beyond traditional research, by combining advanced scientific insights with actionable solutions to address critical global issues. Key focus areas included Eco Innovation, Health Horizons, Biotechnology, and Engagement & Growth.

MAR2PROTECT was represented by Danelle Botha from Stellenbosch University. She presented a scientific poster titled: “Multifaceted and Real-Time Biofilm Characterisation of Model and Non-Model Yeast Strains,” contributing to the rich dialogue on microbial systems and technologies.

Take a look at the photos!