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About the project
This project, co-financed by Jordbruksverket, commenced in September 2023 and will continue until September 2025. It aims to test an innovative business model in real conditions for deploying small-scale sea-based seaweed farms. KOASTAL provides customers, such as fishers, with a turnkey farm package and a buy-back guarantee for their crops, fostering the growth of local small-scale seaweed farming.
About Jordbruksverket
The Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket) plays a vital role in supporting rural development and sustainable agricultural practices in Sweden. It provides information and regulations related to animals, plants, food, and beverages, focusing on trade and health standards. The agency also oversees the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy and the Maritime, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Programme, offering support for rural development measures and agri-environmental payments. Jordbruksverket is a key co-financier of projects that promote innovative agricultural solutions, such as the development and customer piloting of sustainable seaweed cultivation models.
About KOASTAL
KOASTAL is developing the most resource-efficient production system of seaweed biomass using a franchise model building on the current resources of the fishing industry. We help fishers set up, operate and scale their farms, and aggregate and certify their production to result in the best product-market fit for large-scale buyers.
JBV Project Report Q2 2024
WP 1: Site Selection Pilot and Full-Scale Permitting
In Q2 2024, we continued our efforts to secure pilot permits for local fishers to use, focusing on regions in North Bohuslän and Stockholm. Many interests are at play in these archipelago's, meaning open and in-depth communication with stakeholders is key to a successful co-existence. Two permits were granted already, and the others are expected to be granted throughout Q3.
We also advanced the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) processes for several pilot farms, with significant progress made toward securing full-scale permits in south Bohuslän.
WP 2: Optimizing the Design of Seaweed Cultivation Rigs
The chosen farm design, which demonstrated cost- and space efficiency in previous tests, continued to be evaluated and refined for next season. Farmers received additional support for maintenance, and design improvements were implemented to enhance efficiency and ease of operations. Collaboration with engineering consultants ensured that our rigs meet the highest standards of safety and operational effectiveness.
WP 3: Designing, Testing, and Evaluating Harvesting and Processing Logistics
Various harvesting setups were designed, tested and evaluated using vessels of the existing local fishing communities. In two cases, desirable harvesting efficiency was achieved, while room for further improvements was identified.
The use of mesh bags proved effective for storage and handling, with ongoing adjustments to improve performance. Mesh bags are co-developed with a local partner out of recycled fishing nets.
Trials for stabilization methods were initiated to ensure efficient storage of the biomass and are currently being evaluated on market desirability. KOASTAL established several collaborations with research institutes outside of this project, which will further improve the post-harvest biomass handling techniques.
WP 4: Data Recording, Analysis, and Reporting Software
The Track’n’Trace app, designed to provide comprehensive tracking of the seaweed supply chain, was further refined, now with a stronger focus on post-harvest traceability. A batch system was established from on-water harvesting through storage and transport to delivery. The tool allows farmers to comply with the ever-growing desire for value-chain transparency.
WP 5: Farmer Onboarding, Education, and Assistance
Educational efforts continued with additional workshops and on-site assistance. A group workshop was held, where farmers shared insights and prepared for the upcoming season. This collaborative approach fostered a strong community and improved cultivation practices along the Swedish coastline.
The second quarter of 2024 marked continued progress within the project for seaweed cultivation initiatives in Sweden, focusing on expanding operations, refining cultivation techniques, and enhancing support for the farmer network. This report provides an overview of the milestones achieved and ongoing efforts in site selection, rig optimization, harvesting logistics, data management, and farmer support in Q2 of 2024.
Conclusion
Q2 2024 has been a period of significant progress and refinement for KOASTAL. Building on the groundwork laid in previous quarters, we have expanded our operations and enhanced our support systems for farmers. Our continued focus on optimizing processes and engaging with stakeholders positions us well for achieving our project objectives and promoting sustainable seaweed cultivation.