Scottish seaweed industry could 'increase substantially by 2040', according to new report
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THE seaweed industry in Scotland employs around 60 people and generates over £500,000 a year, according to a new report.
However, the document, which outlines future options for the industry, says these figures could "increase substantially by 2040."
It points out that the domestic sector is led by small, artisan-style businesses and stresses that sustainability is key to any future development. Harvesting of some kelp species is already banned.
New Wave Foods, which trades as Shore Seaweed, and has a base in Wick plans to develop its brand into a household name over the next five years and has established retail links for its plant-based snacks with supermarkets across Scotland, including the Co-op in Thurso.
The company is also in discussions with a number of other national retailers and exports its products to countries including Ireland, Switzerland, Poland and has secured orders from as far away as the Middle East.
According to the report, the global seaweed industry is estimated to be worth €8.1 billion a year, with Asia dominating the cultivated seaweed industry.
Popular as a cooking ingredient, seaweed is also used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
The review was undertaken by the Seaweed Review Steering Group, an organisation with representatives from the fisheries, conservation, science, biotechnology and the seaweed industry sectors. It highlights the need for comprehensive policy and robust legislation around planning and licensing of the sector to deliver environmentally sustainable development.
Scottish Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: "I am very grateful to the Seaweed Review Steering Group for this comprehensive report.
"There is a long history of harvesting seaweed in Scotland and growing interest in the sector supports our decision to include seaweed as part of the first stage of the aquaculture review by Professor Griggs which was published earlier this month.
"Other pieces of work, including the new seafood strategy to be published later this year underlines our commitment to ensure that existing and emerging seaweed activities fit into our broader framework for managing multiple uses of the sea, including fishing and renewable energy."
