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Knowledge Centre for Bioeconomy

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Topic / Tool | Last updated: 21 May 2021

Algae biomass

Access maps, visualisations and more resources on algae biomass: What kinds of algae are produced? How and where?

Bioeconomy

Brief me

Algae biomass production within a sustainable and circular Bioeconomy

  • Algae represent a largely untapped resource among the biomass producing sectors of the EU bioeconomy.
  • We can use them for food and feed, cosmetics, fertilisers and fuels, creating new markets and jobs.
  • The term ‘algae’ covers single-celled microalgae cultivated in open ponds or in closed systems and macroalgae, harvested from wild stocks or cultivated in aquaculture systems.
  • Algae biomass production in the EU contributed only 0.28% (93 thousand tonnes wet weight) to global production in 2016, but production plants are already present in most Member States.
  • Worldwide, algae are mainly cultivated. In Europe, 98% of macroalgae biomass has been harvested from wild stocks in 2016, but aquaculture systems are becoming more common.
  • European Commission’s Joint Research Centre is analysing data on algae production and industry in Europe to support sustainable production and use of algae.

 

Find out more in the brief and explore further other resources!

Brief on algae biomass production
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Access information from multiple sources on algae biomass.

Latest knowledge

PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES | 11 Mar 2024
The JRC Biomass Mandate
Learn about the long-term provision of data and analysis on biomass supply and demand by the JRC.