The cultivation of seaweed is gaining impulse on the fixed coast of India that offers economic prosperity to coastal communities and contributes to environmental conservation. Unlike the past, coastal communities look more and more adopting this practice with experts in marines and government agencies that promote algae agriculture such as a change of game for the economy and the environment.
With the growing global demand and research that reveals its multifaceted benefits, seaweed seaweed presents a convincing commercial proposal, said Grinson George, director of the Central-Central Marine Fishing Institute. “The world algae market, valued at $ 16.5 billion in 2022, underlines the immense potential of the sector. With its extensive coast, India is strategically positioned to capitalize on this growth,” he said.
The successful adoption of CMFRIS technologies as the Integrated Multirophic Aquaculture System (IMTA) improved further the performance and income of algae farmers, racing the way for the popular of this agriculture in the coastal region. IMTA is a novel method that algae culture with marine cages cultivation. It has been shown that cultivating species such as Kappafycus is a substantial source of income, with integrated agricultural systems that increase even more.
Blue Gold
As blue gold, algae cultivation offers a sustainable alternative to traditional fishing, reducing pressure on marine ecosystems while guaranteeing constant income, said Grinson George.
The development of fish producing companies within the sector can even more empower local stakeholders that ensure better access to the market and fair prices, he added.
Algae applications extend to various industries, including food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products that diversify market opportunities. The research carried out by CMFRI has unlocked the potential of Indian algae in the development of neutraceutical products, addressing the growing demand for natural health solutions. The ability of algae to kidnap carbon and reduce methane emissions as a crucial tool in the climate efforts of Chahange mitigation.
When expanding production, the director of CMFRI emphasized the need for comprehensive coastal lease policies and a framework of robust mariculture, which are essential for the growth of the attraction and facilitation industry.
The development of seed banks and micropropagation facilities is crucial to guarantee a constant supply of quality seedlings. R&D investment to improve algae strains and agricultural techniques, the expansion of agricultural techniques on the high seas and strengthening supply chains and promotion added products are also critical to further boost this sector, he said.
Posted on April 17, 2025
