Seaweed farmers completed the first harvest at North Sea Farm 1, the world’s first commercial-scale seaweed farm. The farm is located among wind turbines off Scheveningen in the Netherlands. It was established by North Sea Farmers with €2 million from Amazon’s Right Now Climate Fund.
The harvest provides researchers with data on how seaweed farms can remove carbon from the atmosphere. It also explores their role in climate resilience and potential for global scale-up. The farm’s location between offshore wind turbines is a world first for commercial seaweed farming.
Eva Faict, Amazon Netherlands and Belgium manager, said the harvest marks an important milestone. She highlighted that farming among offshore wind turbines is a viable commercial concept. The farm’s placement secures space away from maritime traffic.
Eef Brouwers, North Sea Farmers Managing Director, emphasized ongoing research. He stated that the project aims to show long-term benefits for biodiversity and climate change mitigation. The project also proves that seaweed production is feasible within existing offshore infrastructure.
The farm spans five hectares within the Hollandse Kust Zuid wind farm. Harvesting involves a vessel navigating carefully between turbines to collect seaweed from seabed-anchored nets.
Monitoring is carried out by Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Deltares, and Silvestrum Climate Associates. They use satellite data and site visits to understand the farm’s environmental impact and scaling limits.
Professor Ana M Queirós from Plymouth Marine Laboratory expressed enthusiasm. She said the research will track carbon flow and biodiversity effects. She emphasized the importance of scientific evidence to support sustainable climate solutions.
This project demonstrates innovative ways to use marine resources for climate and ecological benefits.
