Overview
This project provided the technological basis for diversification and revitalisation of seaweed industries in the Pacific island countries of Fiji, Kiribati and Samoa.
Seaweed farming is one of the few industries in Pacific island countries that is culturally and technologically appropriate, and able to provide marine-based livelihood benefits to men and women in remote coastal communities. There is a considerable opportunity to modernise and expand the seaweed industry, including the introduction of new products and applications, and this can be done with the support of government, fisheries departments, researchers and the private sector.
Through the project, a diverse range of research-for-development activities were conducted in the three partner countries relating to seaweed production and bio-product evaluation to diversify the activities and, correspondingly the opportunities available to the seaweed industry in the Pacific islands. The intent was to make the local industry more resilient to both external and internal changes for each partner country.