Responsible supply systems for macroalgae: Upscaling seaweed cultivation in Ireland

Abstract

To address societal challenges and attend to the increasing demand for seaweed while avoiding the over-exploitation of wild resources, the future expansion of the Irish seaweed industry depends on upscaling macroalgal cultivation. Through an interdisciplinary research approach, this study aimed to conduct an in-depth investigation of the prospects of upscaling seaweed aquaculture in Ireland through the lens of sustainability management. The identification of responsibilities of emerging enterprises was aligned with socio-ecological dimensions of sustainability and found to be related to: 1) the natural environment, 2) the development of rural coastal communities, 3) the engagement with local actors and 4) the customer segment. Moreover, seaweed cultivation still faces many uncertainties and bottlenecks from the operational up to institutional levels. Distinct from seaweed collected from the wild, cultivated seaweed has more phases added to the supply chain cycle. This includes, for example, the optimal site selection, the granting of an aquaculture licence and potentially social licence to operate, seed supply, and optimal timing for cultivation or harvest depending on the species, processing capacity and end-uses. The results contribute to an enhanced and holistic understanding of macroalgal cultivation in Ireland, as well as the social responsibility of emerging enterprises over socio-ecological systems and for the establishment of new supply chains based on seaweed. This can help to guide better decision-making of prospective growers, certification bodies, and policymakers in Ireland and beyond.