Aquaculture development: challenges and optimization of sustainable industry

Microalgae have recently attracted considerable interest around the world due to their vast potential in the renewable energy, biopharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Microalgae are a renewable, sustainable and cost-effective source of biofuels, bioactive medicines and nutritional ingredients.

Aquaculture is used to make various products, the value of which is estimated at 6 billion U.S. dollars. Most of them are foodstuffs - $5 billion. The rest is hydrocolloids, which are extracted from algae, fertilizers and feed additives.

The industry uses 7.5-8 million tons of wet algae annually. They are collected either from naturally growing (wild) algae or from cultivated (grown) crops. Algae production has expanded rapidly as demand has exceeded the supply available in natural resources.

Seaweed application

Foodstuffs

The most famous use of algae in food. Obviously, you see algae in sushi rolls or salads, but did you know that some desserts, dressing, sauces are made with them?

Algae have an elastic texture due to the elements they contain. They are used in the food industry as thickeners and gels. If you see carrageenan, alginates or agar on the label, this product contains algae. Vegetarians and vegans may be familiar with agar, which replaces gelatin. It can also be used as a thickener for soups and puddings.

Cosmetic products: toothpaste, masks and shampoos

In addition to their gelling properties, seaweeds are known for their moisturizing, rejuvenating and anti-inflammatory properties. Algae can be found in facial masks, lotions, anti-aging serum, shampoos and even toothpaste.

Medicine

Agar found in algae is used as a nutrient medium in microbiological research. Algae are also used in a variety of ways and research on their medical benefits is ongoing. Some of the statements speak of the ability of red algae to improve our immune system, treat respiratory diseases and skin problems, etc. Algae also contain a large amount of iodine, which is a necessary element for humans. It is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.

Brown (e.g. brown algae and sargasses) and red algae are used in Chinese medicine. The use includes cancer treatment and treatment of goitre, pain and swelling, urinary tract infections and sore throat.

Red algae carrageenan is also thought to reduce transmission of human papillomavirus or HPV. This substance is used in lubricants, and researchers have found that it prevents HPV virions from penetrating the cells.

Combating climate change

In the process of photosynthesis, marine algae absorb carbon dioxide, which is the main cause of global warming and ocean acidification. Statistics show that 1 tonne of removed carbon dioxide per 2 tons of algae. In addition, algae can be used as biofuels.

Strategy for the sustainable development of aquaculture

The development of aquaculture and fisheries will make it possible:

• Create a program of subsidies and support for farmers involved in the sector;
• Ensure equitable distribution of benefits and costs;
• Provide jobs;
• Ensure food security;
• Take care of the environment for the benefit of future generations;
• The development of aquaculture in an orderly manner through the organization of authorities and industry.