Other forms of algae cultivation
Algae can be cultivated both alongside fish and as stand-alone biomass. Beyond their value as food and various human applications, algae also contribute to making other sectors more sustainable and reducing their negative environmental impacts.
Two innovative algae production techniques support a sustainable value chain. One approach leverages waste from other industries to produce algal biomass, while the other optimizes the use of locations that would otherwise remain idle during certain periods, thereby enhancing biodiversity and unlocking untapped potential.
Key facts of macro and microalgae cultivation
Macroalgae
- Growth environment
- Intertidal and subtidal zones
- Often attached to seabed/solid substrate
- Methods
- Flow-through systems
- RAS with natural or artificial seawater
- Cage culture
- Long lines
- Challenges
- Environmental Conditions
- Legislation and Permits
Microalgae
- Growth environment
- Freshwater, saltwater, wastewater
- Freely suspended or attached to substrate
- Methods
- Open systems (ponds, raceways)
- Fermenters
- Photobioreactors
- Challenges
- Risk of contamination
- Efficient harvesting
It is important to recognize that algae growth, yield, and the choice of cultivation method are influenced by a wide range of interconnected factors. For example, the selected method often depends on the specific growth environment and national policies, which in turn can affect each other.
For example:
Legislation and Permits: Obtaining permission for macroalgae production is often a complex and time-consuming process. Currently, there is no comprehensive legal framework governing macroalgae cultivation, which impacts every stage—from cultivation and harvesting to collection. This lack of clear regulation slows down the development of the industry. To facilitate progress and encourage investment, it is essential to simplify and streamline permit procedures. Strong political support is crucial to achieving this goal.