Sustainable Ecosystems of the Mediterranean Area

Dear Colleagues,

The modern lifestyle poses significant challenges across all areas of society, particularly concerning sustainability in agriculture, fisheries, food production, and technology development. These issues are especially pronounced in the Mediterranean region, which is characterized by its unique climate, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Climate change significantly impacts soil erosion and fisheries, exacerbates pest and disease problems in both sectors, and disrupts traditional practices. Concurrently, pollution and biodiversity losses compound the difficulties faced by these sectors, which are also under pressure to produce more nutritional and higher-quality food products to meet rising demands.

Sustainable solutions require innovations in technology development and the integration of digitalization. Therefore, we invite eminent experts from the academic community and researchers to present their current knowledge and new opportunities related to the sustainability of marine and agricultural ecosystems, as well as innovations in food production and digitalization, with a focus on the Mediterranean.

We welcome research papers and reviews that contribute to and discuss the challenges facing sustainable agri-food, fisheries, aquaculture, marine pollution, climate change, biodiversity, tourism, and digitalization in the agri-food sector. By sharing insights and advancements, we aim to inspire and learn from each other, contributing to this crucial topic that impacts our everyday life.

This Special Issue will cover a range of topics that are essential to the Mediterranean region, including the following:

• Agro-Food Sector: investigating sustainable agricultural practices that conserve soil and water resources and enhance food security and quality.
• Fisheries and Aquaculture: addressing sustainable fishing practices, the impact of climate change on marine life, and innovative aquaculture techniques to support marine biodiversity.
• Marine Pollution: exploring solutions to combat pollution in the Mediterranean Sea, protecting its unique marine ecosystems.
• Climate Change: examining the specific impacts of climate change on the Mediterranean environment and proposing adaptation and mitigation strategies.
• Biodiversity: studying the rich biodiversity of the region and developing conservation strategies to preserve it amid changing environmental conditions.
• Digitalization in Agronomy and Food Production: utilizing digital tools and technologies to improve efficiency, traceability, and sustainability in food production.
• Environmental Protection: implementing policies and practices that protect the Mediterranean’s natural resources and ecosystems.
• Waste Management: developing innovative solutions for managing agricultural and marine waste to minimize the environmental impact.
• Environmental Engineering: applying engineering principles to develop sustainable technologies and practices for the agri-food sector.

By addressing these areas, we aim to foster a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between environmental sustainability and technological innovation in the Mediterranean context. This initiative will not only enhance academic knowledge but also provide practical solutions to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital region.

Prof. Dr. Vida Šimat
Dr. Maja Krzelj
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• agro-food sector
• fisheries
• aquaculture and marine pollution
• climate change
• biodiversity
• digitalization in agronomy and food production
• environmental protection
• waste management