Macroalgae cultivation pilot facilities for bioenergy production
In the pursuit of sustainable bioenergy, researchers face challenges in growing, harvesting, and converting macroalgae efficiently. Standardizing production methods and monitoring environmental impacts are crucial for successful large-scale cultivation of kelps like Saccharina latissima and Alaria esculenta.
Cultivate macroalgae for sustainable bioenergy
The dedicated macroalgae pilot facilities by EnAlgae focus on developing efficient methods for growing and harvesting seaweeds. At the National University of Ireland, Galway, a large-scale hatchery grows kelps, with the aim to standardize production of a hectare site at sea. By carefully monitoring environmental conditions, they gain insights into macroalgal cultivation’s interaction with habitats. Queen’s University Belfast evaluates offshore cultivation methods for sustainable kelp biomass production, particularly in areas of high human activity like Strangford Lough. This involves collecting vital biological, ecological, and socio-economic data to gauge seaweed strains’ suitability for large-scale farming. Additionally, the Centre d’Etude et de Valorisation des Algues in France develops and exchanges best practices, with three sea sites collecting standard performance data for the large-scale cultivation of kelps.
Benefits
- Standardized cultivation methods
- Insights into environmental impacts
- Sustainable biomass production
- Suitability assessment of seaweed strains
- Shared best practices and data