AlgaeVALOR

The common challenge in the 'green-blue sector' is the creation of value for every aspect of seaweed. Whilst seaweed already has a sustainable outlook, and the NWE region is regarded as quite resource efficient, still more effort and innovation should be put into creating a circular economy. In the case of seaweed, most processors only focus on one aspect of seaweed while the leftovers are discarded and incinerated, releasing CO2 in the proces. 

The overall objective of this project is to fully valorise seaweed in the NWE region. By using both brown and green seaweed which are very common in the NWE region, this project aims at creating a new innovative business case and a circular approach to seaweed. 

The main output of the project will be processing solutions for seaweed with the integrated processes of Zeefier and BlueBlocks. Each project partner will be able to benefit from the valorisation of seaweed. For Green Turtle value will be created for otherwise discarded components of seaweed. Zeefier and BlueBlocks will receive a stable input stream for their respective process. UGent will be able to research factors controlling growth and biochemical composition of seaweed, while at the same creating value for their discards. Spaak will be able to create an innovative business case and advise other stakeholders on said business case. As for interest group North Sea Farmers, they will benefit by coordinating the project and informing stakeholders, ultimately upscaling the seaweed sector. 

The complementary and transnational approach of this project aims at combining the knowledge of every partner in the participating countries in the best way possible. This will make sure the results of the project are representable for the entire seaweed sector in the NWE area. Since at the moment seaweed is regarded as sustainable, even while processors are only interested in single components, this new outlook on valorising every aspect of seaweed can really elevate the sector to the next level.