Seaweed: A Tide of Change for Our Coastal Waters

I’m a volunteer at Climate Cymru, and recently we had the privilege of visiting an extraordinary seaweed farm in Pembrokeshire, Wales, where a dedicated team is transforming the way we think about sustainable agriculture.

Imagine stepping into a world where our coasts are teeming with life, where every tide brings a promise of sustainability. Through my journey to Câr-y-Môr, I’ve learned firsthand about the vital role our oceans play in global health, the surprising benefits of seaweed, and how these aquatic plants support marine life. Câr-y-Môr is a community-oriented seaweed farming initiative, focusing on sustainable aquaculture. They cultivate seaweed on ocean lines which supports marine biodiversity by providing habitats for species like scallops, oysters, and mussels. 

What started as a small, passionate initiative with only four or five dedicated individuals has grown into a flourishing enterprise that now employs over 450 people. By creating jobs with purpose beyond profit, and developing innovative products such as bio stimulants and bioplastics, Câr-y-Môr enhances the local economy and fosters both economic and environmental benefits for the local community

And the best part? We got to see this future in action! Câr-y-Môr has meticulously cultivated and perfected the growth of a remarkable six different types of seaweed! During our visit, we had the privilege of indulging in a unique experience, tasting two of these fascinating varieties firsthand. The subtle flavours and textures were a revelation, showcasing the potential of seaweed as a nutritious addition to our diets. They also have seaweed baths and nourishing lip balms, each crafted with the utmost care to bring the essence of the sea directly to your home. Even packaging is eco-friendly, made from the seaweed itself, reflecting Câr-y-Môr’s commitment to sustainability in every aspect of their operation. Câr-y-Môr also has Seaweed Concentrate which helps to improve plant health and growth, which they supply to local farms and Caeriad Market Garden.

It’s hard to believe that these simple plants could hold one of the keys to our environmental challenges, but it’s true. Seaweed farming at Câr-y-Môr is more than agriculture; it’s a lifeline for biodiversity, purifying our waters and providing habitats for countless marine species. Each farm acts like a mini ecosystem where seaweed helps reduce ocean acidity and promotes healthier waters. These benefits extend beyond the ocean, as seaweed absorbs carbon and even improves air quality. Yet, our work is only beginning. Every strand of seaweed grown is a step towards cleaner, healthier oceans, but the scale of change needed is immense.

I envision a future where our local seas are not just surviving but flourishing. A future where our children can play along the coast, learning about the diverse life supported by seaweed farms. I dream of beaches echoed with the laughter of families and the gentle lap of a clean, vibrant ocean, enriched, and protected by our efforts.

Across the coast, groups of dedicated locals are already turning this vision into reality. They’re out there, rain or shine, cultivating and caring for our seaweed, educating the community, and preserving the marine beauty we all cherish.

Yet, we can’t do this alone. The tides are changing, but so must we. Our community’s effort is a powerful tide, yet the ocean we’re up against is vast and its challenges deep.

Will you join us in nurturing this blue revolution? Can you see yourself as part of this change, for our seas, our community, and our children?

Join our community to learn more about our sustainable practices and how you can get involved by signing up to our newsletter, or even by volunteering with us.

Our seas are calling. Will you answer?

Prakriti is a Master’s student in Digital Marketing at Cardiff Metropolitan University, is a passionate advocate for the environment and all its wonders. She volunteers as a blog writer for Climate Cymru, a non-profit organisation promoting sustainable practices in Wales.