Project summary
The start-up plants a type of seaweed known as giant kelp in forests off the coasts of Namibia, New Zealand and Alaska. These forests sequester up to ten times more carbon than tropical rainforests. Kelp Blue then harvests the forest canopies to create sustainable biostimulants that allow farmers to reduce the use of synthetic fertilisers drastically.
To support the start-up’s international growth and impact goals, including enhancing marine biodiversity and large-scale carbon sequestration, we provided €500,000 via the Development Accelerator, a facility we manage on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Kelp Blue will use these funds for pilot activities to scale and diversify its commercial processing.
Project impact
Climate action through marine farming
Giant kelp could sequester 2,000 tCO2e/km2 per year, six times higher than a tropical rainforest.
Fostering marine biodiversity
Over 800 species live in and around giant kelp forests, which serve as fish nursery areas and provide shelter to other organisms.
Creating decent jobs in Namibia
The project creates at least 30 jobs and further academic and professional development opportunities for local staff.
Contributing to responsible production in other industries
The start-up is exploring the production of sustainable inputs for cosmetics, textiles, and nutraceuticals.
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