Seaweed: Moving from concept to thriving industry
Scientific leadership delivering a growth industry
Seaweed aquaculture in South Australia has rapidly evolved from a promising concept into a growing industry. Spearheaded by the South Australian Research and Development Institute’s (SARDI) scientific leadership, this sector is now projected to contribute up to $140 million per year to our state’s economy and generate more than 1,200 regional jobs. It exemplifies how applied science can spark sustainable economic development while solving environmental challenges.
At the heart of this opportunity is Asparagopsis, a native red seaweed with a remarkable property – when added to livestock feed, it can reduce methane emissions by up to 90%. SARDI scientists were among the first to successfully cultivate this species under controlled conditions, moving it from lab discovery to industry-ready production.
SARDI establishes seaweed hatchery
In 2023, SARDI established Australia’s temperate node of the national seaweed hatchery network, based at our West Beach facility. This hatchery technology developed commercial production by companies like CH4 Global, Sea Forest and others in production of high-quality seedstock and propagation. As well as commercial application, the hatchery works in the interest for conservation and restoration as the industry establishes ensuring effective management of the vital ecosystem.
Beyond emission reduction
Seaweed’s value goes far beyond emissions reduction. It assimilates excess nutrients and carbon, improves ocean health, and can be co-cultivated with finfish and shellfish in integrated multi-trophic aquaculture systems – turning waste into productivity. These systems have the potential to transform aquaculture into a more diverse, circular and climate-smart enterprise.
SARDI’s research also extends into post-harvest processing, high-value native species, and new applications such as nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, food, bio-stimulants, bioplastics, and ecosystem service markets.
Partnering with industry, SARDI has had a hand in many exciting developments pertaining to seaweed cultivation, one being the phycoerythrin project, extracting the organic pigment from seaweed. Used in food and beverages, with potential applications in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, phycoerythrin is a protein, which when added to food, increases its nutritional value.
As the industry matures, greater benefits are realised.
Research, policy and industry converge
With the global seaweed market growing at over 10% per year, South Australia is well-positioned to lead.
This is a textbook case of public investment in science delivering public good. By mapping growing zones, establishing production processes, and embedding environmental safeguards, SARDI has laid the foundation for a robust and future-focused industry. The result is a model for how research, policy and industry can converge to create real, measurable impact.