A scalable and modular approach to open-ocean seaweed aquafarming for sustainable products enabling carbon dioxide removal and marine ecosystem co-benefits
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
The Challenge
Addressing climate change and protecting marine ecosystems require urgent and scalable solutions. The current reliance on land-based biomass for biofuels and bioplastics is unsustainable due to intense competition for arable land, freshwater, and fertilizers. While seaweed aquaculture offers a game-changing opportunity to decarbonize industries and enhance marine biodiversity, the sector lacks scalable, cost-effective technologies for offshore cultivation and rigorous data on environmental impacts.
Explore the Ocean Gardens Project
The Ocean Gardens project aims to pioneer offshore regenerative seaweed farming across European waters. The primary objective is to demonstrate the feasibility, environmental benefits, and economic viability of cultivating diverse native seaweed species in the open ocean in Europe.
Aligned with Horizon Europe, EMFAF, and the European Blue Economy, Ocean Gardens validates a scalable 40,000 m² modular aquafarm capable of producing several tons of dry biomass per year while enhancing biodiversity and supporting climate action.
Project Structure
FAQS
Project coordination & governance
Ensuring efficient management, compliance and smooth coordination across partners.
Scientific & technical development
Advancing ocean-based solutions supported by scientific evidence.
Pilots & demonstration activities
Testing innovations in real marine and coastal environments.
Environmental & sustainability assessment
Evaluating environmental impacts, risks and long-term viability.
Communication, dissemination & exploitation
Engaging stakeholders and supporting uptake beyond the project.
Expected Impact
Sustainable Growth
Promotes the cultivation of diverse seaweed species to support marine ecosystems.
Environmental Impact
Helps in carbon sequestration and contributes to empower biodiversity.
Innovative Techniques
Utilizes cutting-edge technology to enhance growth efficiency and monitoring.
Community Support
Empowers local coastal communities through seaweed training and sustainable practices.
Consortium
Ocean Gardens brings together a diverse European consortium working across marine science, technology, aquaculture and sustainability.
Guiding principles
Advancing regenerative ocean solutions through scientific excellence, innovation and responsible collaboration across Europe.
Innovation
We drive innovation by developing novel offshore seaweed cultivation systems, integrating advanced monitoring technologies, and testing nature-based solutions that can be scaled across European waters.
Excellence
We ensure scientific and technical excellence by combining multidisciplinary research, rigorous data collection, and evidence-based methodologies aligned with Horizon Europe and EMFAF priorities.
Results
We focus on delivering measurable, high-impact results—demonstrating environmental benefits, validating economic feasibility, and supporting EU policy with transparent, open-access data.
Collaboration
The Project commits to implementing the FAIR principles (Findable, Accesible, Interoperable,Reusable) for all research data generated.
In-kind contributors:
Research & cluster:
Industry & Innovation:
Social:
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