SeaGrow – Seaweed Ecosystem Aquaculture for GROWth and Sustainability
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The SEAGROW project aims to demonstrate the technical and commercial feasibility of regenerative ocean farming (ROF) while enhancing marine biodiversity and ecosystem health in Europe. To do this, a developer-led business model incorporating innovative ROF technology, biodiversity enhancement and nature protection will be demonstrated at scale. Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) of seaweed and shellfish will be demonstrated in a nearby test site.
SeaGrow brings together seven organisations: Óir na Farraige (Simply Blue Group’s pioneering seaweed aquaculture venture, coordinator), Trinity College Dublin, the Atlantic International Research (AIR) Centre, Sea Going Green, AquaBioTech Group, Via Pontica Foundation, and Clear Seas Aqua.
| Title: |
SeaGrow – Seaweed Ecosystem Aquaculture for GROWth and Sustainability |
| Start-End: | October 2025 – September 2028 |
MAIN OBJECTIVES
Project Objectives and Demonstration Activities
SEAGROW will establish a large-scale demonstration site in Galway Bay, deploying innovative seaweed cultivation systems designed to deliver measurable ecosystem benefits.
In parallel, the project will operate an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) test site in the Galway Bay (Ireland), combining seaweed and scallop farming to assess co-benefits and interactions between species.
Beyond demonstration, SEAGROW will deliver key outputs to enable sector growth:
- Standard Operating Protocols and an ecosystem assessment framework for ROF practices;
- An ecosystem credits system creating new market incentives for environmental performance;
- Compatibility assessments with Marine Protected Areas to unlock new sea-space for aquaculture;
- Development of an eco-labelling and decision-support system for policymakers and investors;
- An EU-wide market development strategy for seaweed-based products.
Engagement and Outreach
To ensure wide dissemination and stakeholder engagement, SEAGROW will host a series of workshops, alongside a dedicated outreach programme for primary schools along Ireland’s Atlantic coast. These activities aim to foster public awareness and strengthen collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and industry actors in the sustainable aquaculture sector.
SEAGROW is funded by the European Union under the EMFAF Action Grant “Smart Specialisation for Sustainable Blue Economy and Regenerative Ocean Farming” (CINEA – European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency).
