SEAGROW

Seaweed Ecosystem Aquaculture for Growth and Sustainability

About the project

SEAGROW is a European project focused on developing practical and regenerative approaches to seaweed farming that support healthy marine ecosystems and sustainable food production.

The project brings together researchers, practitioners, and environmental organisations from across Europe to test and improve seaweed cultivation methods that work with nature, not against it. A key part of SEAGROW is exploring how these models can be adapted to different sea basins, including the Black Sea.

SEAGROW officially started with its first in-person consortium meeting in Dublin, Ireland, where partners met to align on goals, responsibilities, and the work ahead.

Why SEAGROW matters

Seaweed farming has growing potential to contribute to food security, biodiversity protection, and climate resilience. However, it needs to be done responsibly.

SEAGROW aims to show how regenerative seaweed farming can:

  • Reduce pressure on marine ecosystems

  • Support biodiversity and ecosystem health

  • Create sustainable economic opportunities

  • Offer realistic solutions for coastal regions

The project focuses on solutions that can be applied in real conditions, not just in theory.

Via Pontica Foundation’s role

Via Pontica Foundation is involved in SEAGROW as a partner representing the Black Sea region.

Our role includes:

  • Exploring the potential for regenerative seaweed farming in the Black Sea

  • Looking at environmental and regulatory conditions

  • Engaging with local stakeholders and experts

  • Sharing project developments and results with the public and relevant institutions

Our focus is on ensuring that any proposed solutions are realistic, regionally relevant, and environmentally responsible.

Project partners

SEAGROW is implemented by a European consortium that includes:

  • Óir na Farraige (Ireland) – Project coordinator

  • Trinity College Dublin (Ireland)

  • Atlantic International Research Centre (AIR Centre), Portugal

  • Sea Going Green, Netherlands

  • AquaBioTech Group, Malta

  • Clear Seas Aqua, Ireland

  • Via Pontica Foundation, Bulgaria

Each partner brings different expertise, ranging from scientific research to practical implementation and communication.

Funding

SEAGROW is funded by the European Union under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).  Project Number: 101241416

More information

Further updates on SEAGROW activities, events, and results will be published on this page as the project progresses.

For information about the wider project and consortium, you can also visit the official SEAGROW partner website:
https://www.seagoinggreen.org/seagrow-home-mobile