Does your seaweed looks weird?
A NEW online course by the Oban-based Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS UHI), in partnership with The Open University in Scotland, makes cutting edge research on seaweed cultivation freely available for the first time.
Seaweed has often been hailed as a solution to a number of global issues, whether it is the next ‘superfood’ or the answer to food and fuel shortages.
A new course called ‘My Seaweed Looks Weird’ has been devised by scientists at SAMS UHI and developed in partnership with Opening Educational Practices in Scotland hosted at The Open University in Scotland.
The course is aimed at students with a sci- entific background and employees within the industry.
Skills
It aims to build their knowledge and understanding of seaweed parasitology, enhancing employability and skills within the industry and leading to recognition for learners.
Project leader Dr Claire Gachon is excited about opening her research to the wider population. She said: ‘Seaweed has promised a lot but, as in any new industry, there are pros and cons to consider.
‘We need a clear picture of where the industry is going and how we can make it sustainable.
‘The UK has immense potential as a producer of seaweed, but currently lags behind most coastal Asian countries. However, this delayed development gives scientists and businesses the chance to apply the most advanced levels of research and understanding to the industry from the start.
‘Running this course through the Open University will allow the GlobalSeaweed project to communicate with lots of audiences and will help us achieve our goal of creating a network of seaweed industry partners.’
Harvesting
The UK has a tradition of seaweed harvesting; it has been part of the country’s diet for around 4,000 years and was traditionally used as a fertiliser.
Today, countries like China harvest seaweed on a huge scale as part of a global multi-billion dollar industry.