by Kevin Keane (BBC Scotland) Trials have begun near Oban to create one of the UK’s first seaweed farms.
Harvesting of wild seaweed has been taking place for centuries but researchers say there is huge potential to create a farmed industry.
Experts say 96% of the world’s seaweed comes from Asia but that Scotland’s waters are ideal for growing.
It is grown on lines which sit just below the surface of the water. And it could be used for food, beauty products and even biofuel.
A one hectare (2.4 acres) site, such as the one near Lismore, would be able to produce 100 tonnes of seaweed.
…
(Marine scientist Dr Adrian) Macleod added: “We also need to look at ways to produce systems for cultivating seaweed which automate the seeding, harvesting and the storage of the seaweed products. And in this way we hope to create an industry that is both economically viable and an industry which is great for the future.”
…
Fellow scientist Dr Phil Kerrison said: “We’re working on a number of different projects and they are aimed mainly at the production of biofuels but also working with companies who are using it for food or as animal fodder. So there’s many different uses for this crop.
…
Last month, the Scottish government issued its first set of guidelines for the commercial cultivation of seaweed.
They urge producers to consider and mitigate adverse environmental impacts. READ MORE