AIR Centre contributes to EU Efforts on regenerative aquaculture and marine biodiversity

The AIR Centre – Atlantic International Research Centre is proud to be part of SEAGROW (Seaweed Ecosystem Aquaculture for GROWth and Sustainability), a new European project that marks an important step forward for sustainable aquaculture and marine ecosystem restoration.

Funded by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) under the call “Smart Specialisation for Sustainable Blue Economy and Regenerative Ocean Farming” and managed by CINEA – the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency, SEAGROW aims to demonstrate the technical and commercial feasibility of Regenerative Ocean Farming (ROF) — an innovative aquaculture approach that enhances ocean health while supporting food production.

Within SEAGROW, the AIR Centre plays a key role across several Work Packages, contributing to the project’s environmental, market, and communication dimensions. Its main activities include:

• Integrating aquaculture and biodiversity monitoring tools to assess environmental performance and ecosystem benefits;
• Developing frameworks for ecosystem impact evaluation, decision-support, and eco-labelling systems to promote sustainable aquaculture practices;
• Leading the Lessons Learned task, which will produce evidence-based recommendations to optimise regenerative aquaculture and ensure its long-term viability.

Drawing on its international network and multidisciplinary expertise, the AIR Centre will also enhance dissemination and outreach activities, connecting SEAGROW’s outcomes with the broader scientific community and related EU initiatives, and fostering knowledge exchange across the Atlantic.

Coordinated by Óir Na Farraige, the SEAGROW consortium includes Sea Going Green, Trinity College Dublin, AquaBioTech Group, Via Pontica Foundation, Clear Seas Aqua, and the AIR Centre. Together, these partners will develop and test regenerative seaweed cultivation systems that promote marine biodiversity, nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration — key drivers for a more resilient and sustainable Blue Economy in Europe.

Learn more and follow SEAGROW’s journey towards a regenerative and resilient ocean economy here.