42 • URNER BARRY'S REPORTER / VOL. 19, NO. 1 / WINTER 2024
improving coastal residents' livelihoods.
The global seaweed market's growth
presents coastal communities with the
opportunity to tap into new markets,
generate revenue, and potentially increase
their exports. Furthermore, seaweed
farming can help buffer these communities
against the unpredictable nature of
traditional fisheries, which are vulnerable
to overfishing and environmental changes.
With its low environmental impact and
sustainable practices, seaweed farming
not only offers economic security but also
contributes to the long-term resilience of
these communities.
CULINARY AND NUTRITIONAL APPEAL
Seaweed has transitioned from a niche
ingredient to a culinary staple, reflecting
evolving consumer preferences. It is
nutrient-rich, packed with vitamins,
minerals, and antioxidants, while also being
low in calories and fat, making it a healthy
choice for those seeking a balanced diet.
The unique mix of nutrients in seaweed
supports immune function, bone health,
and overall vitality, making it a valuable
addition to a diverse and health-conscious
diet. As consumers look for alternative and
nutritious food sources, seaweed products
have gained popularity in various cuisines.
EXPORT POTENTIAL
With the rise in global demand for
seaweed-based products, the U.S. has the
potential to tap into international markets.
Seaweed is a key ingredient in Asian
cuisines and is gaining traction in Western
countries. The export of domestically
Seaweed cultivation, a practice deeply
rooted in the traditions of Japan, China,
and Korea, has recently sparked significant
interest in the U.S. This renewed attention
is spurred by its recognized role as a
sustainable solution to pressing global
issues like climate change, food security,
and the preservation of ocean ecosystems.
Investors, environmental advocates, and
food enthusiasts are all drawn to this
growing trend, leading to the establishment
of numerous aquatic farms in locations
such as Maine, Alaska, and along the
Pacific Northwest. The momentum behind
seaweed farming is fueled by its promising
environmental advantages and substantial
economic prospects. According to a recent
report from the World Bank, the emerging
global seaweed markets are poised to
potentially reach a value of up to $11.8
billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound
annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 2.5%
between 2023 and 2030.
Seaweed farming, also known as
mariculture, involves cultivating various
marine algae species in underwater
environments. Using methods like vertical or
3D farming, seaweed farmers can achieve
substantial yields from relatively small
areas. Most seaweed is grown on longlines,
suspended four to eight feet below the
water's surface during the winter season.
This farming approach encompasses
diverse seaweed types, including dulse, bull
kelp, ribbon kelp, and sugar kelp, which are
used in various culinary delights like sushi,
salsas, sauces, salads, seasonings, and
other food products. Furthermore, farmed
seaweed finds applications in cosmetics,
animal feed, and fertilizers.
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS
One of the primary driving forces
behind the rise of seaweed farming is
its environmental benefits. Seaweeds
act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing
significant amounts of carbon dioxide
from the atmosphere, mitigating climate
change, and combating ocean acidification.
Seaweed grows rapidly and does not
require arable land or freshwater, making
it a sustainable resource for food, biofuels,
and various industrial applications. These
farms also serve as nurseries for marine
life, enhancing biodiversity and supporting
fish populations. They purify seawater,
improve overall water quality, reduce
greenhouse gas levels, and combat ocean
acidification, which threatens marine
ecosystems. Seaweed farming also plays
a crucial role in enhancing water quality
by absorbing excess nutrients, reducing
the likelihood of harmful algal blooms,
and promoting overall ecosystem health.
Furthermore, seaweed provides shelter
and sustenance to various marine species,
easing pressure on natural seaweed
populations and creating healthier
underwater habitats.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES
Seaweed farming offers significant
economic benefits to coastal communities,
providing a sustainable source of income
and diversifying economic activities in
these regions. It creates job opportunities
in cultivation, harvesting, processing,
marketing, and distribution. As the industry
expands, more employment opportunities
emerge, reducing unemployment rates and
The new farming boom…
The growing tides of
SEAWEED FARMING
in the U.S.
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