Seaweed Biofilters in Australia
The Australian Seaweed Institute is developing a transformational technology for seaweed to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Through a network of seaweed biofilters between the coast and the reef, nitrogen and carbon dioxide would be captured by the seaweed and then harvested for use in products such as biofertiliser.
Australian Seaweed Institute: the Seaweed Biofilter circular economy.
This circular economy innovation is anticipated to provide a significant opportunity for new jobs and economic development in regional Queensland while improving water quality essential for reef health. The concept design is the first stage in a multiyear project to develop this environmental solution in partnership with Central Queensland University’s Coastal Marine Ecosystems Research Centre in Gladstone.
ASI’s Seaweed Biofilter Project is garnering world attention.
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Our Seaweed Biofilters Project Plan
project Objective
Develop an innovative, technology solution for removing Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen (DIN) through seaweed biofilters.
PROJECT Outcome
Concept design for a network of seaweed biofilters with quantified nitrogen removal, social and economic impact and a strategy for implementation.
Stage 1
Seaweed Biofilter Concept Design
Scientific Laboratory Validation and Solution Strategy
18 months
Evaluate native seaweed species for nutrient removal & biofertiliser potential
Laboratory growth trials (CQU Marine Mesocosms)
Validate seaweed nitrogen removal potential of selected seaweed/s
Engineering technology review for biofilter designs
Develop Biofilter Network Strategy
Risk Assessment and Management Plan
Independent Scientific Review
Comms & Engagement
Concept Design Report
Stage 2
Seaweed Biofilter Proof of Concept
Simulation and Field Trial Validation
18 months
Closing the Lifecycle, Seeding Techniques and Hatchery Protocols
Engineering Prototype Design/s for Seaweed Biofilters
Small scale field trial – location Sea Sim and/or Orpheus Island
Identify possible sites for seaweed biofilter installation (first pass)
Update Biofilter Network Strategy
Independent Scientific Review
Report on results & findings
Comms & Engagement
Stage 3a
Seaweed Biofilter Pilot Project
Pilot Design & Permit Application
6-12 months*
Select site/s for 2-year seaweed biofilter pilot
Engage with regulators on requirements
Detailed submission for pilot project
Conduct site surveys as required
Operational Management Planning
Submit applications for permits and licenses for pilot
Government Engagement & Public Consultation
Comms & Engagement
*Dependent on approval timeframes from Government Agencies
Stage 3b:
Seaweed Biofilter Pilot Project
Pilot Scale
2 years
Native seedstock collection
Construct & commission seaweed biofilter
Conduct Ecosystem Impact Monitoring
Monitor Water Quality Results
Operation & Maintenance of seaweed biofilters
Report on Pilot Results, Findings and Recommendations
Independent Scientific Review
Update Biofilter Network Strategy
Comms & Engagement
Stage 4:
Scale Up Seaweed Biofilters
Project Delivery
18 months++
Confirm sites for seaweed biofilters
Define pathway to scale seaweed biofilters as a solution for reef health
Independent Scientific Review
Engagement with catchment stakeholders
Develop Innovating Financing Model for Seaweed Biofilters
Develop Investment Case
Raise Capital
Comms & Engagement
KEY STAKEHOLDERS
Great Barrier Reef Scientific Community
GBRF Program
Indigenous Stakeholders
Key Regulatory Agencies
Farmers
Interested Public
This project is funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.
The High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy led by Australia's Prime Minister clearly recommends seaweed as a solution for a sustainable ocean economy.