Successful Seagriculture EU 2024 conference united the global seaweed industry in the Faroe Islands

The Seagriculture EU 2024 conference, the premier event for the seaweed industry, was successfully held in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, from 18 - 20 June 2024. Under the unifying theme "Bridging Continents," Seagriculture EU 2024 transcended geographical boundaries, bringing together 224 delegates from 25 countries around the globe. Representatives from more than 123 companies and institutions actively engaged in discussions, networking, and knowledge sharing, underscoring the global interest in seaweed farming and its diverse applications

Seagriculture EU 2024 began on 18 June with an exclusive site visit to Ocean Rainforest, one of the largest seaweed cultivators in Europe, where they have approximately 200.000 meters of seeded seaweed lines deployed on some 220 hectares. Delegates were offered a firsthand glimpse into their operations with expert guides from Ocean Rainforest by their side. Participants were treated to a boat journey to explore the cultivation site in Gøta more closely and witness seaweed harvest in action, an up-close look at the production and hatchery facilities, as well as a visit from land to their other cultivation sites in Funningsfjørð. All in combination with scenic drives over the Faroe Islands and beautiful weather. The conference organisers have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the delegates of this unique site visit experience to Ocean Rainforest.

From 19 to 20 June, the Seagriculture EU 2024 conference unfolded with a dynamic program featuring five plenary sessions, two panel discussions, and the newly introduced Seaweed Elevator Pitches. This innovative format allowed for the swift coverage of numerous projects, enhancing the depth and breadth of industry insights shared. With nearly 50 speakers participating, including international experts from DG MARE, FermentationExperts, Unilever, Cargill, and Future Feed, attendees gained access to diverse perspectives in seaweed farming, innovations and regulations. Among other highlights of Seagriculture EU 2024 was the trade show where some ten leading exhibitors showed their latest technologies and equipment. The trade show and networking quality was exceptional, with attendees eagerly engaging with exhibitors. The trade show table tops were well attended and many conference delegates engaged in instant networking and lively exchanges, reflecting the event's dynamic and interactive nature.

“We are excited about the response and success of Seagriculture EU 2024”, said Kuno Jacobs, Managing Director of DLG Benelux, the conference organiser.

The enthusiastic participation of seaweed professionals, researchers, and policymakers underscores the growing recognition of seaweed as a crucial component of a sustainable future. 

We are particularly pleased to see a growing number of delegates, not only from the seaweed and aquaculture industries, but also from the feed and food industry and other related sectors each year. 

This diversity highlights the importance and relevance of the conference in addressing broader sustainability challenges. 

We thoroughly enjoyed working in the Faroe Islands and are grateful for the close cooperation with Ocean Rainforest. 

Their team's excellence in making the site visit a memorable experience significantly contributed to a unique edition of Seagriculture EU.”

In addition to enriching the conference with valuable knowledge and insights, Seagriculture EU 2024 also provided an authentic experience of Faroese culture. After the first conference day, various Faroese companies offered some seaweed bites during the seaweed tasting. Another unforgettable feature was the conference dinner, where delegates enjoyed the melodies of a national choir. Within Seagriculture EU 2024 the organisers introduced the B2Match conference application, providing participants with an efficient way to communicate, schedule meetings, and stay updated on the latest news. The app facilitated more than 160 meetings, helping delegates build new connections and partnerships, and ensuring a seamless and engaging conference experience. The Seagriculture Conferences act as a driving force for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, fostering advancements in the seaweed industry. By uniting a diverse group of stakeholders, the conference has sped up the adoption of sustainable practices, promoted market expansion, and highlighted seaweed as a vital solution to global climate challenges. 

Next Editions: 

  • Seagriculture USA 2024: Ketchikan, Alaska from 11 - 12 September 2024
  • Seagriculture Asia-Pacific 2025: Adelaide, Australia from 18 - 20 March 2025
  • Seagriculture EU 2025: Rotterdam, The Netherlands from 17 - 19 June 2025

More information

For more information on the conference, the organisers, pictures, contact details of speakers for interviews, applications for press passes and barter deals, refer to www.seagriculture.eu or contact us info@dlg-benelux.com.