Since 2011, the influx of sargassum in the Caribbean and West Africa has posed significant socio-economic challenges. Despite these negative impacts, there is a growing effort to turn sargassum into an opportunity. This has led to the creation of innovative products and services made from sargassum, which are now being marketed both regionally and internationally. The "Sargassum Uses Guide" is the most comprehensive resource on the topic, providing an overview of current and potential uses, along with a directory of innovators and researchers. However, it does not assess the effectiveness of these solutions or provide a global outlook. This report offers a detailed update on the current landscape of sargassum innovation and governance. It introduces the "Sargometer," a proposed tool to help entrepreneurs evaluate the sustainability and effectiveness of different solutions. The study highlights case studies of leading innovators and their products, while also incorporating community perspectives on various technological solutions. The report concludes with considerations for the future development of the sargassum industry. Technological solutions for managing sargassum influxes in the Caribbean and Latin America primarily include machinery for onshore and in-water harvesting, as well as various by-products like compost, liquid extracts, bioplastics, biogas, construction materials, clothing, and cosmetics. Some products, such as biostimulants, biofertilizers, and compost, show high potential for short-term commercialization. To maximize the use of sargassum, the study suggests a biorefinery approach. As the industry grows, it is crucial to develop governance structures, including quality and regulatory frameworks, to ensure market success. Policies should also support sustainable sargassum businesses, such as duty-free concessions and free zones for equipment and property acquisition. With the right technology and supportive environment, even small enterprises can thrive internationally.
Authors
- DOI
- http://dx.doi.org/10.18235/0013107
- Pages
- 106
- Published in
- United States of America
Table of Contents
- Executive summary 3
- Abbreviations and Acronyms 5
- Table of Contents 7
- 1 Introduction 9
- 2 Methods 12
- DESKTOP REVIEW 14
- KEY INFORMANT INTERVIEWS 14
- SITE VISITS 14
- SURVEYS 14
- STRUCTURE AND PREPARE THE REPORT 14
- 3 Identification of Technological Solutions Implemented in Central America Mexico and the Caribbean 15
- PROS CONS 18
- PROS CONS 21
- PROS CONS 25
- PROS CONS 28
- PROS CONS 31
- PROS CONS 32
- PROS CONS 33
- PROS CONS 35
- 4 Community Perspectives 36
- 5 Assessment of Technological Solutions 39
- 6 Regional Case Studies 45
- 7 Updated sargassum businesses directory 71
- 8 The Governance Landscape 73
- 9 Global Outlook 77
- 10 Future Considerations 80
- 11 Conclusion 86
- 12 References 87
- 13 Annexes 96
- Annex 1. List sargassum businesses presumed to be operational in Central America Mexico and the Caribbean 96
- Annex 2. Key researchersexperts in Central America Mexico and the Caribbean studying potential uses of sargassum 98
- Annex 3. Score breakdown for the 10 factorscriteria used to assess the effectiveness of valorisation applications 101
