In line with the tradition of addressing cutting-edge topics in blue bioeconomy, this 2022 edition deals with (1) an overview of latest developments of micro- and macroalgae cultivation systems, (2) a focus on sargassum, (3) an analysis of seaweed as blue carbon, and (4) a dissertation on how seaweed can transform regional economies. Each topic is addressed in a separate chapter of the study.

The first chapter explores the latest developments of micro- and macroalgae cultivation systems. Seaweed farming and harvesting are still very small-scale in Europe – despite 36% of entries in a global seaweed industry database being in Europe, many are start-ups not yet commercially operational. The second chapter focuses on sargassum, a genus of large brown seaweed that spends its life on the ocean’s surface and floats in large masses. The surge in Sargassum blooms across the Atlantic region has led to the proliferation of projects that seek to mitigate its effects. Albeit holding great potential, most solutions seeking to valorise Sargassum are not commercially mature yet.

The third chapter addresses the topic of “seaweed as blue carbon”. Seaweed ecosystems play a crucial role in the marine carbon cycle. There is scientific consensus that seaweed acts as a net sequestrator of CO2 worldwide, potentially matching levels of sequestration from tidal marshes, mangroves and seagrass ecosystems combined. Researchers believe that Europe has vast areas suitable for seaweed and macroalgae cultivation, but it only accounts for less than 0,25% of global human-led seaweed production (farming + harvesting). Possible actions to integrate seaweed in climate policies include conservation, restoration and farming, with potential positive effects on both climate and the environment.

Finally, the fourth chapter provides an analysis of how seaweed can transform regional economies. The European seaweed industry is both small in scale and regionally imbalanced. There is a growing demand for seaweed products that producers cannot fulfill due to a variety of factors, such as knowledge silos, lack of data transparency, unpredictable production cycles, inefficient supply chains, complex regulatory frameworks, etc. All of these factors disincentivise risk-averse investors and businesses.