ITT for the Provision of a Strategy for the Development of the Irish Algal Sector 2021-2030

Description

There are significant opportunities for the expansion of the Irish macro algal sector in terms of functional foods, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, bio-stimulants (by means of a bio-refinery), bioremediation and feed in the area of anti-methanogenic properties of interest to the dairy and beef sectors. Capitalising in a sustainable way on this versatile and abundant, naturally occurring resource is a key objective of BIM’s work programme. This proposed macro algal strategy will include effective farming methods, energy efficiency and clean extraction technology (zero waste) for high value product development. This is in line with the Irish Government’s priority in promoting Green Public Procurement in the context of the wider commitments under the Climate Action Plan (circular 20/2019). This review is also aligned with current EU policy. Algae has been identified by DG Mare in its blue bioeconomy road map and in this regard the EU is to provide support to algal development activities to enable a strong and sustainable EU algal sector providing for the following objectives: - improved governance, large scale production, support funding, improved business environment, social awareness and acceptance and closure of knowledge and innovation gaps. There are now marine seaweed aquaculture licences in place for 230 hectares of seaweed cultivation in Ireland with a number of additional applications in the pipeline. In this regard BIM intends to carry out this sectoral review to: - • develop a strategy to help producers increase sustainable and circular farmed marine production from current levels (<100t) to include proposed licenses and new technology. • to identify the supports which BIM can provide to seaweed processors • to identify the food safety/traceability requirements of primary producers and processors and • to identify support services outside the remit of BIM which the sector will require for its profitable development.