News

Researchers at Aarhus University report that offshore wind farms could support large-scale sugar kelp cultivation, creating a sustainable source of food ingredients, feedstocks and bio-based materials. Trials in Danish North Sea waters demonstrated high biomass yields, strong product quality and significant nutrient removal, with cultivation technology now considered commercially ready.

By integrating seaweed systems between wind turbines, developers can share infrastructure and marine space, improving efficiencies and lowering environmental impact. While technical barriers have largely been overcome, researchers emphasize that scaling the sector now depends on building supply chains, strengthening industry partnerships and stimulating consumer demand.

The Solomon Islands Government, through the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, will distribute 50 boats and outboard motors to seaweed farmers nationwide to strengthen domestic production. The initiative aims to improve transportation and support rotational crop harvesting across farming communities.

According to Wesley Garofe, Deputy Director for Aquaculture, limited access to adequate boats has hindered harvesting and product transport. The new equipment is expected to increase efficiency, reduce crop losses caused by delayed harvests, and improve biomass recovery. Distribution will begin once transportation arrangements are finalised.

Aaron Mooser, a product design graduate from Bauhaus University Weimar, has developed Symbios, an automated buoy system aimed at improving Nordic nearshore seaweed farming. Designed as his bachelor thesis project, the system regulates depth, moving seaweed to cooler waters during warmer months to counter temperature fluctuations that can disrupt harvests. This enables more reliable year-round cultivation and partial harvesting.

Symbios also features integrated remote monitoring to reduce costly boat trips, and a modular, repairable design built for durability in marine environments. By supporting continuous cultivation, the system additionally fosters stable marine habitats, benefiting both farmers and surrounding ecosystems.

Blue Dot Kitchen (BDK) has launched a new seaweed processing facility under a lease with the Port of Seattle, marking a milestone in its mission to scale regenerative seaweed ingredients. Sourcing from the Pacific Northwest, including Alaska and British Columbia, the company aims to build a stronger value chain for ocean-grown crops.

Using proprietary methods, BDK says it can increase harvest yield sixfold while delivering functional ingredients for manufacturers and foodservice. Backed by private investment and grants, the company is expanding beyond its Seacharrones snack into higher-volume B2B channels, supplying ingredients for sauces, marinades, soups, snacks and other applications.

In Huangbi'ao Township, East China, seaweed cultivation is transforming local economies and ecosystems, integrating with tourism and pioneering blue carbon trading, offering a model for sustainable development.  

Based in St Asaph, North Wales, PlantSea is tackling the global issue of plastic pollution head-on through biodegradable, seaweed-based packaging, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. With support from the Welsh Government’s Innovation team, the company is accelerating its research, strengthening partnerships and preparing to scale production, helping to position Wales at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing.

Greenwave Aotearoa is exploring partnerships with cosmetic companies, product developers, impact investors and research organisations interested in helping scale native seaweed cultivation and ingredient development in Aotearoa.