Algae & Seaweed Farming in the Baltic Sea: Building a Circular Blue Bioeconomy

Introduction

The Baltic Sea is one of the world's most environmentally stressed marine ecosystems, facing persistent eutrophication, biodiversity loss, and climate-related pressures. While traditional restoration efforts remain essential, nature-based solutions are gaining increasing attention for their ability to improve ecosystem health while generating sustainable economic opportunities.

This report explores how integrated algae and seaweed farming—particularly through Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA)—can contribute to nutrient recovery, carbon capture, sustainable biomass production, and the development of a circular blue bioeconomy. Drawing on scientific literature, European policy frameworks, and real-world case studies, it provides an evidence-based overview of one of the most promising approaches to sustainable coastal management.

Abstract

This sustainability brief examines the potential of algae and seaweed farming as a nature-based solution for restoring the Baltic Sea while supporting a circular blue bioeconomy. It evaluates the scientific foundations of algae cultivation, compares different farming systems, discusses circular biorefinery pathways, assesses environmental and economic performance, reviews regulatory frameworks, and highlights implementation challenges and European case studies. The report concludes that open-water coastal IMTA represents the most practical and scalable option for improving water quality while creating new opportunities for sustainable coastal development.

Algae Farming in Baltic Sea Report.

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