Applied phycology: innovative and sustainable use of macroalgae

Prof. Dr Laurie C. Hofmann, marine biologist at the Alfred Wegener Institute and professor of Applied Marine Biology at the Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences.

Macroalgae research

Aquaculture

Marine resources

Ensuring food security for the growing population is a global imperative. As demand for food and sustainable resources increases, the world's oceans will play an increasingly important role in feeding the growing population. Yet wild stocks cannot meet the growing demand. Therefore, cultivation of marine organisms will be necessary to meet the increasing demand. In particular, macroalgae cultivation will play an important role in contributing to food security as a food and/or feed ingredient.

Macroalgae cultivation provides a variety of ecosystem services. When considered in the context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), these include SDG 14 (life below water), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), and SDG 12 (responsible production and consumption). Specifically, algae cultivation provides healthy food, hydrocolloids, and feed, regulates water quality, and provides habitats and nursery areas. Our research at AWI focuses on sustainably scaling up and optimizing the algae farming industry in Europe to contribute to these Sustainable Development Goals.