Assessing the potential for seaweed cultivation in EU seas through an integrated modelling approach

The potential of large-scale seaweed cultivation to contribute to achieving ambitious EU-wide objectives, such as food security, energy independence, carbon neutrality and ecosystems restoration, is widely recognised. However, there is a lack of information on the suitability of EU marine regions for the installation of floating macro-algae cultivation infrastructures. This study uses the World Offshore Macro Algae Production Potential (WOMAPP) model in conjunction with state-of-the-art coupled hydrodynamic-biogeochemical models, to assess the environmental suitability of EU marine regions for seaweed cultivation. Furthermore, it also highlights the benefits of integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) to enhance seaweed cultivation sustainability and efficiency.