Towards a Strong and Sustainable EU Algae Sector

Summary:

Communication adopted by the European Commission on 14 November 2022, setting out an initiative aimed at unlocking the potential of algae in the European Union (EU).

Further information:

This Communication proposes actions to create opportunities for the industry to help it grow into a robust, sustainable and regenerative sector capable of meeting the growing EU demand. The EU is one of the biggest importers of seaweed products globally.

The European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy and the Communication on a Sustainable Blue Economy identify the potential of farmed seafood as a source of protein for food and feed with a low-carbon footprint. The Farm to Fork Strategy highlights the role of algae as an important source of alternative protein for a sustainable food system and global food security. The Strategic Guidelines for a more sustainable and competitive EU aquaculture for the period 2021-2030 stress the need to promote the farming of algae - both macroalgae (seaweed) and microalgae - as a way of contributing to achieving several objectives of the European Green Deal. The Communication on Sustainable Carbon Cycles also recognises the potential of algae for the blue carbon economy.

The strategy was adopted by the European Commission on 14 November 2022.

• Alternative Source 1

Official

EUR-LEX: SWD(2022)361: Staff Working Document accompanying the Communication - Blue Bioeconomy: Towards a strong and sustainable EU algae sector https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=SWD:2022:361:FIN

European Commission: Maritime Forum: EU4Algae Initiative https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/maritimeforum/en/frontpage/1727

European Commission: Press Release, 14/11/2022: Commission proposes action to fully harness the potential of algae in Europe for healthier diets, lower CO2 emissions, and addressing water pollution https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_22_6899

European Commission: Questions and Answers on EU Algae Initiative (14 November 2022) https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/qanda_22_6900

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Commentary and Analysis

Euronews, 25/10/2022: 'Blue revolution': How farmed seaweed is good for us and the planet https://www.euronews.com/green/2022/10/25/blue-revolution-how-farmed-seaweed-is-good-for-us-and-the-planet

El País, 01/11/2022: Microalgae promise abundant healthy food and feed in any environment https://english.elpais.com/science-tech/2022-11-01/microalgae-promise-abundant-healthy-food-and-feed-in-any-environment.html

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