Sea6 Energy – an India-based seaweed producer – has launched the world’s first large-scale mechanized tropical seaweed farm. The farm, which covers an area of 1 km2, marks a significant milestone in establishing the scalability of sustainable tropical seaweed cultivation, with potential applications including biostimulants, bioplastics, and the continued research and development of renewable chemicals and fuels.

Until now, the harvesting process for mass cultivation of tropical seaweed has acted as a significant barrier to the scalability of the industry, and is a key reason for the lack of research into the seaweed feedstock’s applicability in large industrial applications.

By automating various workflows of seaweed cultivation, from seeding to harvesting, and developing knowledge that dramatically enhances the feedstock’s shelf life, Sea6 aims to increase the productivity of smallholder seaweed farms with their vertically integrated innovative platform.

The launch of the unprecedented seaweed farm was attended by dignitaries in Indonesia, including the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, the Minister of Fisheries, and the Minister of Industry. Their presence at the launch underscores the importance of this project in promoting environmental stewardship and fostering economic growth in the region.

According to the thefishsite