A Greener Future with Sustainable Seaweed Farming
Growth inspection of Southern Seagreens farm in Flinders
At Aegir Divers, we’re all about taking our passion for the sea and turning it into action. From deep-sea diving to underwater inspections, we’ve always been committed to preserving and protecting our oceans and the marine assets that keep the marine industry operating safely. But sometimes, the best way to protect the ocean is to work with it, and that's exactly what we’re doing in partnership with Southern Seagreens.
Together, we’ve embarked on an exciting project: sustainably farming native seaweed species in Flinders, Westernport Bay whilst also trying to bring an introduced, invasive species under control. It’s a collaboration that combines our expertise in underwater exploration and the incredible ecological knowledge of Southern Seagreens to tackle an environmental challenge while also creating a sustainable, valuable resource.
The Problem: Invasive Seaweed
Invasive species are one of the biggest threats to marine ecosystems, and seaweed is no exception. Certain species of seaweed can grow rapidly and dominate underwater habitats, outcompeting native species and disrupting the balance of the ecosystem. Left unchecked, these invasive seaweeds can harm local biodiversity, fish populations, and marine habitats that are vital for the health of our oceans.
Westernport Bay and southern Port Phillip Bay, two vibrant ecosystems located in Victoria, Australia, are home to a huge variety of beautiful, native kelp but a particular invasive seaweed species has taken hold in recent years. While this presents an environmental challenge, it also offers an opportunity for innovative solutions—solutions that can benefit the ecosystem and the local community.
The Solution: Sustainable Seaweed Farming
Enter Aegir Divers and Southern Seagreens. By teaming up, we’ve found a way to turn the problem of invasive seaweed into an opportunity that will help establish native kelp farming whilst also supporting environmental restoration. Our goal is to harvest the invasive species in a way that reduces their impact on the local marine ecosystem while simultaneously creating valuable products.
Invasive seaweed harvesting doesn’t just remove unwanted species—it creates a resource. The seaweed we harvest can be processed into a range of sustainable products, however we are focusing on turning it into amazing food for humans. This provides an economic incentive for the continued removal of invasive species, all while supporting local industries and promoting sustainability.
How We’re Doing It
Our team of commercial divers plays a vital role in this project. We’re using our expertise in underwater work to safely and efficiently harvest the invasive seaweed species from the seabed in Southern Port Phillip. This hands-on approach ensures we’re minimizing disruption to the ecosystem while removing as much of the invasive species as possible.
Southern Seagreens brings a specific set of skills and experience in sustainable seaweed farming and processing. Together, we’re developing a model that will allow us to continue harvesting these species in an environmentally friendly way, providing an ongoing supply of sustainable products.
We’re also working closely with marine scientists and environmental experts to ensure that our approach helps restore the local marine environment, promoting the growth of native seaweed species and supporting the overall health of both Port Phillip and Westernport Bay.
The Bigger Picture
This collaboration is just one of many ways that Aegir Divers is working to make a positive impact on our oceans. We believe that through innovation, partnerships, and a deep respect for the sea, we can contribute to sustainable practices that protect marine ecosystems for generations to come.
By working with Southern Seagreens to sustainably farm invasive seaweed, we’re not only addressing a pressing environmental issue but also providing a model for how we can work with the ocean—rather than against it. This project shows that with the right approach, we can turn a problem into a solution, benefiting both the environment and local communities.
Harvesting the first successful crop of Giant Kelp (Macrocystis) at the flinders farm.
Looking Ahead
We’re excited about the future of this partnership and the impact we can make together. The more we learn about seaweed farming, the more potential we see to use it as a tool for environmental restoration and sustainable industry. From cleaning up our oceans to supporting local economies, this project is just the beginning.
So, stay tuned! Aegir Divers and Southern Seagreens are on a mission to create a greener future, one kelp farm at a time. And we’re only just getting started.
