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Researchers at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) are investigating the potential of dulse, a red seaweed species, as a sustainable alternative material for textiles. The initiative aims to explore how marine resources can contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of the fashion and fabric industries.

Dulse (Palmaria palmata) is already recognized for its nutritional and commercial value, commonly harvested for food and other applications. The SAMS project extends its potential use into the textile sector, assessing whether compounds derived from the seaweed can be processed into fibers suitable for fabric production.

The research focuses on developing methods to extract and refine natural polymers from dulse that could be spun into threads. By leveraging seaweed’s fast growth rates and minimal land requirements, scientists believe marine-based textiles could offer a more sustainable alternative to conventional materials such as cotton or synthetic fibers derived from fossil fuels.

Unlike traditional agriculture, seaweed cultivation does not require freshwater, fertilizers, or arable land. This makes it an attractive resource in the context of growing environmental pressures and the need to reduce carbon emissions. The team at SAMS is examining both the technical feasibility of producing durable fibers from dulse and the broader environmental benefits of scaling up seaweed-based textile production.

The project reflects a broader movement within marine science and sustainable innovation to identify new applications for seaweed. As industries seek renewable and biodegradable materials, marine biomass is gaining attention for its versatility and lower ecological impact.

By exploring dulse as a fabric source, SAMS researchers aim to contribute to the development of circular and sustainable supply chains. The findings could help inform future collaborations between marine scientists, material engineers, and the fashion industry, supporting efforts to create environmentally responsible alternatives to conventional textiles.

Hatch Blue has introduced the first comprehensive seaweed industry guide focused on Latin America and the Caribbean, marking a significant step in supporting the region’s growing interest in marine-based solutions. The guide is designed to provide an in-depth overview of the seaweed sector, offering insights into its development, opportunities, and challenges across the region.

The publication compiles key information on seaweed species, cultivation practices, processing methods, and market applications. It also highlights the environmental and economic potential of seaweed farming, positioning it as a strategic industry capable of contributing to food security, climate resilience, and sustainable coastal development.

According to Hatch Blue, the guide aims to serve as a practical resource for entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders interested in advancing seaweed initiatives. By consolidating relevant data and regional perspectives, the document seeks to facilitate informed decision-making and encourage collaboration among public and private actors.

The report emphasizes the diversity of seaweed species native to Latin America and the Caribbean and examines their potential uses in food, animal feed, agriculture, biofuels, and bioproducts. It also addresses regulatory frameworks, infrastructure needs, and investment considerations that influence the scalability of seaweed ventures.

In addition to mapping the current landscape, the guide identifies gaps and opportunities within the value chain. It underscores the importance of innovation, technical capacity building, and access to financing to unlock the full potential of the sector. The document also reflects growing global demand for sustainable marine ingredients and the role the region could play in meeting that demand.

Hatch Blue positions the guide as a foundational tool to catalyze responsible industry growth. By offering a structured overview of the ecosystem, it aims to strengthen regional networks and foster knowledge exchange among stakeholders committed to sustainable aquaculture development.

The launch of this guide signals increasing momentum for seaweed as a viable and scalable aquaculture segment in Latin America and the Caribbean, aligning with broader efforts to promote blue economy initiatives throughout the region.

Notpla has partnered with Dutch quick-service restaurant (QSR) Kwalitaria to advance its seaweed-based coating, suitable for trays and containers, with logistics provided by packaging distributor Conpax.

Zanzibar has launched a $117 million fisheries and aquaculture project aimed at strengthening its blue economy, enhancing marine conservation, and building climate resilience.

Speaking during the first project implementation meeting on Friday, February 6, 2026, the Project Coordinator from the Zanzibar Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mr Mohamed Said Khamis, said the five-year initiative is designed to mitigate the effects of climate change while boosting marine-based livelihoods.

The project will focus on improving fishing, seaweed cultivation, and other marine product farming activities. It seeks to modernize the sector by providing fishers and seaweed farmers with improved equipment and access to loans, enabling them to increase productivity and adopt sustainable practices.

According to Mr Khamis, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to transform Zanzibar’s ocean resources into sustainable drivers of economic growth. By strengthening fisheries and aquaculture value chains, the project aims to enhance food security, create employment opportunities, and increase incomes for coastal communities.

Climate change mitigation is a central component of the programme. The project incorporates measures to promote environmentally responsible fishing and aquaculture practices, helping to safeguard marine ecosystems while ensuring long-term economic benefits.

The initiative aligns with Zanzibar’s Blue Economy Policy, which emphasizes sustainable development and the responsible use of marine resources. Through targeted investments and institutional support, authorities aim to position fisheries and aquaculture as key pillars of economic development.

Officials noted that strengthening marine product farming and fisheries infrastructure will play a crucial role in unlocking the full potential of Zanzibar’s coastal and marine resources. The project is expected to significantly contribute to the country’s economic growth while reinforcing resilience against environmental challenges.

Welsh biotech start-up PlantSea has surpassed its crowdfunding target, securing significant funding to progress its seaweed-derived biodegradable packaging technology from laboratory development to industrial-scale manufacturing trials. The successful raise marks a key milestone for the company as it seeks to commercialise natural alternatives to conventional plastic packaging.

Bellona has launched the Oslofjord Kelp Park, a pilot kelp cultivation facility outside Slemmestad, about 30 kilometers southwest of Oslo, aimed at restoring environmental conditions in the heavily stressed Oslofjord.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has developed a seaweed-based anti-obesity and anti-dyslipidemia nutraceutical product called CadalminTM Antihypercholesterolemic extract using bioactive compounds from coastal seaweed species.