The Resurgence of Seaweed Farming in Ireland
Irish Seaweed Farming
Ireland has a long and rich history of seaweed harvesting and utilization, dating back to ancient times. However, in recent decades, the practice has declined significantly. But now, there is a resurgence of interest and activity in seaweed farming across the Emerald Isle.
Seaweed has played an integral role in Irish life for centuries. In our latest blog, we explained how seaweed was historically used as a fertilizer, food, and even as a substitute for chewing tobacco. Entire communities would harvest seaweed from the shores and spread it across their fields to enrich the soil and support thriving crops.
Increasing Scale
From 2011 to 2013 alone, the Irish seaweed industry grew by 8.5 tonnes of cultivated seaweed to 41 tonnes in 2013, comprising red and brown seaweeds. Due to a lack of data, it is unclear how much is being cultivated in this day and age. Worldwide, however, the seaweed industry increased by 46% between 2012 and 2019.
Additionally, businesses harvesting, processing, and selling seaweed products have more than doubled since 2016, with seaweed now appearing in a diverse array of food, beauty, and nutraceutical products. Rockweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) is the most commonly produced species, but other brown, red, and green seaweeds like kelp, dulse, and laver are also being cultivated.
BIM’s desired growth for Irish Seaweed Cultivation
The resurgence
This resurgence of seaweed farming in Ireland is driven by growing consumer demand, recognition of seaweed's nutritional and health benefits, and its potential to provide valuable ecosystem services. However, the industry still faces some challenges, such as knowledge gaps and the need for further research and collaboration between stakeholders to fully realize the potential of this ancient Irish resource.
Overall, the revival of seaweed farming in Ireland is a testament to the country's deep connection to the sea and the enduring value of this versatile marine resource. As more people rediscover the culinary, medicinal, and environmental benefits of seaweed, it is poised to play an increasingly important role in Ireland's food, health, and agricultural systems.
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