Supporting the Growth of the UK Seaweed Industry

The UK seaweed industry is still small, but it is a rapidly growing sector. Seaweed is now produced for a wide range of uses — from food, animal feed and plant fertilisers to degradable plastics, gut probiotics and nutraceuticals.

At IBERS, our expertise in seaweed composition and pilot-scale processing has supported the development of several UK seaweed companies. Using our specialised equipment, we have worked with industry partners through:

• Small research and development collaborations funded by European and Welsh Government projects
• Contract research services
• Collaborative Innovate UK grants

As these companies progressed through higher technology readiness levels, new challenges emerged that were not visible at smaller (laboratory) scale. Tackling these has generated valuable knowledge for both the companies involved and for IBERS.

Collaboration and Training

In addition to contract and grant-funded work, IBERS has collaborated with industry through:

• PhD studentship sponsorships
• Undergraduate research projects

These collaborations not only strengthen industrial links but also help train the next generation of seaweed scientists.

Fundamental Research

Alongside applied industry support, IBERS conducts more fundamental research on seaweeds, focusing on:

• The composition and effects of seaweed extracts or biostimulants on plants
• Isolation, expression and characterisation of novel seaweed-degrading enzymes
• Development of biodegradable plastics from seaweed
• The potential of seaweed as an alternative protein source
• The use of extracts to improve gut health

This breadth of research reflects the versatility of seaweed as both a scientific subject and a commercial resource.

Building Networks and Leadership

IBERS staff are also active in national and European networks:

• Participation in European COST actions through training schools, workshops and review publications
• Leading proposals to establish a UK seaweed network, involving partners such as the Scottish Seaweed Industry Association, University College London, and Cefas

Looking ahead, IBERS will continue to play a leading role in shaping seaweed research. Between 2026–2027, IBERS staff will hold the Presidency of the British Phycological Society, the UK’s main algal society. Aberystwyth will also host the society’s annual meeting in January 2026.

Download our full IBERS Impact Case Stories Booklet here: Innovations for a Changing World Case Story Booklet