Growing benefits: Developing a sustainable seaweed industry 

The expanding seaweed industry is an asset for coastal communities, however the challenge will be to develop it further in a sustainable manner

Around 40,000 tonnes of seaweed is harvested here each year, with over 95% naturally grown, according to Bord Bia. Picture: iStock

More people are becoming aware of the properties of seaweed, be it for health supplements, beauty products, or even hot baths.

While the seaweed industry has been expanding steadily in recent years, with obvious benefits for coastal communities, the real challenge will be to develop it further in a sustainable manner.