Seaweed Farming

Uses: Seaweed farming, also known as kelp farming, is a rapidly growing aquaculture sector that involves cultivating various species of seaweed for food, feed, cosmetics, and biofuels.

Methods: Seaweed farming involves two main methods: attachment to a substrate (e.g., rocks or nets) and suspension from longlines or rafts. The latter allows for vertical or 3D farming, increasing yields from a small area.

Species: Over 50 species of seaweed are cultivated, with the most common being Eucheuma, Kappaphycus, Gracilaria, Saccharina, Undaria, and Pyropia.

Production: Seaweed farming is a significant industry, with Asia being the largest producer, accounting for 97% of global output. The top producers are China, Indonesia, South Korea, the Philippines, and Japan.

Environment: Seaweed farms can help reduce coastal pollutants, absorb excess nutrients, and mitigate ocean acidification. They also provide habitat for marine life and can even help restore kelp forests. Organisations like SeaForester are focused on rewilding ocean floors around the world.

Seaweed farming presents a promising and innovative approach to sustainable food production and environmental conservation.

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