First seaweed farm in wind park officially opened

On September 24, 2024, the first commercial seaweed farm within an offshore wind park was officially opened. North Sea Farm #1, located off the Dutch coast, spans five hectares and is part of the 'Hollandse Kust Zuid' wind farm. The farm's goal is to improve seaweed cultivation and conduct research into seaweed's potential to capture and store CO2.

Sustainable production and CO2 reduction

In its first year, North Sea Farm #1 will produce around 6,000 kilograms of seaweed, which can be used for products such as clothing, food, and cosmetics. The project is supported by a consortium of knowledge institutions, led by North Sea Farmers, and is funded by Amazon’s Right Now Climate Fund. “This seaweed farm could serve as a blueprint for other offshore projects worldwide,” says Eef Brouwers, managing director of NSF.

Support from Amazon and the EU

Amazon has invested €1.5 million in the farm and the research into CO2 reduction through seaweed cultivation. Roeland Donker of Amazon Netherlands highlights the project’s importance: “This initiative contributes to our broader sustainability goals.” Felix Leinemann of the European Commission also sees potential: “Seaweed cultivation could play a key role in achieving the EU’s goals for CO2 reduction and biodiversity.”

Northeseafarmers.org