The Po Delta, characterised by extraordinary biodiversity and away from mass tourism circuits, is the subject of an innovative project that connects the academic world with local excellence.
The "Delta Maps" project involves the University of Padua, the Veneto Regional Natural Park of the Po Delta, and the Goletta L.A.B. Foundation, with the aim of disseminating research beyond the academic sphere. Studio Bleu manages the scientific communication of the project.

Collaborative research pathways have been initiated, involving local businesses and the faculty of the Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA) at the University of Padua. These pathways focus on studying the biodiversity of the Po Delta, the effects of climate change, and the enhancement of typical products such as rare honeys, PGI rice, clams, and oysters farmed with tidal movements.

The Caleri Lagoon, located between the Po di Levante and the Adige, is not only an area with exceptional biodiversity but also an "open-air research laboratory" for projects developed in collaboration with clam farmers. Researchers from the BCA Department study the impact of pollutants on clams, threatened by the blue crab, and the composition of their microbiome, useful for determining their origin.

Another focus is the sustainable farming of the pink oyster, based on an innovative method that simulates Atlantic tides through solar tidal movements, conceived and patented by Florent Tarbouriech and introduced to Italy by Alessio Greguoldo, in collaboration with the French aquaculturist. The oysters are individually glued, by hand, to ropes connected to a winch that lifts them out of the water, simulating the effect of Atlantic tides. The frequency of the lifts, regulated by a timer powered by photovoltaic panels, allows for the management of product growth.

Universities and businesses also collaborate to find solutions against the invasive species that threatens molluscs. In the first phase, faculty, researchers, naturalist guides, local entrepreneurs have collaborated to create new pathways, improve research communication, and initiate innovation projects. Central themes include both excellent food productions, such as clams threatened by the blue crab and sustainable pink oysters, as well as wildlife protection and the development of a connected tourism offer.

Other aspects concern the organic production of PGI rice, wheat, and alfalfa, threatened by the increase in saline wedge and the presence of nutrias.
The Po Delta honey is the subject of research to ensure its safety and origin, preventing food fraud.

The project also plans to create a hub for wildlife conservation, which will serve as a research laboratory and dissemination space.

The project's communication includes podcasts and maps that narrate and suggest ways to explore the territory through tourist and scientific itineraries.

The Po Delta, with its rich biodiversity, is ideal for slow tourism, such as cycle tourism, equestrian tourism, birdwatching, and navigation on small boats.
The final phase of the project's launch and dissemination, currently underway, is part of a new third mission project of the University of Padua, the RINASCO initiative, which involves various departments to consciously regenerate nature, environment, and health.