Ocean Gardens: a scalable and modular approach to open-ocean seaweed aquafarming for sustainable products enabling carbon dioxide removal and marine ecosystem co-benefits (OCEAN GARDENS)

Short description of the project: Ocean Gardens is a three-year project funded by EMFAF aimed at showcasing how regenerative aquafarming can contribute to climate action and create new economic opportunities for coastal communities

Expected results: This project will focus on cultivating diverse native seaweed species using innovative floating techniques in the open ocean, providing a scalable and cost-effective alternative to traditional coastal line-based farming. The Canary Islands will serve as the primary demonstration site for the ocean gardens. The project will explore expansion opportunities in Galicia and the Mediterranean, by studying water chemistry, native species, regulatory frameworks, and biomass market applications. 

Application/relevance: The Ocean Gardens project pioneers offshore regenerative seaweed farming across European waters and will demonstrate its feasibility, environmental benefits, and economic viability.