The status and future of seaweed farming in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea
Our oceans cover over seventy percent of the Earth’s surface, yet only contribute to two percent of the world’s food supply. Seaweed has the potential to contribute to a systemic change in our model of civilization, but its potential remains majorly untapped. The unique properties of seaweed make it a precious ally to meet global challenges, from food security to climate change.
To inform Mediterranean and Black Sea stakeholders regarding seaweed farming, its benefits, potential and applications in the region, the GFCM is holding an online workshop: The status and future of seaweed farming in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
On 15 July, experts and stakeholders will come together to discuss issues including global and regional trends in seaweed production, climate change, health benefits of seaweed consumption and gastronomy, seaweed farming in the Mediterranean and more. The workshop will be divided into two sessions:
- The potential and benefits of seaweed farming
- Applications and future perspectives of seaweed
This workshop aims to:
- Increase awareness of GFCM riparian countries regarding the potential of seaweed farming in the region
- Improve knowledge on the current status of the sector in the region
- Increase interest of stakeholders in seaweed farming as a food source
Passcode: GFCM721+
The benefits of seaweed range from a nutritious source of food for human consumption, to animal feed, biofuel, fertilizer, a substitute for plastics and even medicine. Importantly, seaweed can also play a role in carbon sequestration and eutrophication mitigation and is increasingly being used as a nature-based solution to mitigate climate change and support ecosystems.
Seaweed farming constitutes an integral part of the GFCM 2030 Strategy for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea under Target 3. Aquaculture: a sustainable and resilient sector growing to its full potential. Seaweed, farmed on its own or as part of integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, is among the best practices the GFCM is promoting towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the blue transformation of aquaculture.
Learn more about the GFCM’s work on seaweed.