An Australian innovation for seaweed biofilters to help protect the Great Barrier Reef is drawing attention at Davos 2021 this week as one of the top global innovations for protecting oceans. 11 innovations protecting life below water – and above it | World Economic Forum (weforum.org)
Preliminary results from the latest study that Kebreab co-authored on the algae found that it reduces intestinal methane production in beef steers by more than 80% when added to their feed. Other research found reductions of up to 98%, without adverse effects on the cows’ weight or the quality of beef produced.
Seaweed could be Australia's next big farming enterprise, offering far more than just new aquaculture options to add value to our primary production sector. Farmed seaweed's prospects as a livestock feed, fertiliser, and a carbon sink alternative to locked-up land vegetation areas make it far more than just a trendy inclusion in salads and sushi rolls.
The Australian seaweed industry is making waves, with expansion into a $100 million industry in the next five years. And Geographe Bay-based Indian Ocean Sea Vegetables is hoping to be a big part of that growth. Investors are lining up to get involved in seaweed to reduce emissions, improve ocean health, and create jobs in regional areas.
In Episode 24 of the Ocean Impact Podcast Tim speaks to the founder of the Australian Seaweed Institute, Jo Kelly. In this podcast Jo get’s into the results of her ‘deep dive’ into the burgeoning opportunities for Australia to ride the seaweed wave to big, positive economic and environmental outcomes. (video)
