A massive seaweed farm off the coast of Tasmania is cultivating a type of seaweed called asparagopsis. The farm, which covers 1,800 hectares, lies just 10 minutes offshore from the portside town of Triabunna.
Benefits of Asparagopsis
Asparagopsis is native to Tasmanian coastal waters and contains a compound called bromoform. Research has shown that this compound can reduce methane emissions from livestock when added to their feed or grain.
Dr. Fran Cowley, a researcher at Australia’s University of New England, has conducted extensive research on asparagopsis. According to Cowley, more than 40 studies have demonstrated that adding asparagopsis supplements can significantly lower methane emissions from livestock without affecting animal health or meat quality.
The Impact of Methane
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas responsible for around 20% of global warming since pre-industrial times. It remains in the atmosphere for approximately two decades before breaking down into carbon dioxide.
Dr. Cowley notes that simply removing animals’ ability to produce methane through their gut microbes does not provide long-term results:
"As soon as you take away these animals’ ability to produce methane through their gut microbes, the amount they emit goes back up again."
Government Investment
The Australian government has invested $3 million in developing an industry around growing and processing asparagopsis for use by farmers who want it added directly into feed or grain given to cattle and sheep.
In addition to its potential impact on greenhouse gas emissions, Dr. Cowley believes that using natural products like bromoform could be more effective than other methods being explored by scientists.
Challenges and Considerations
While some studies have suggested adding certain chemicals directly into animal feed may reduce methane production over short periods (weeks), there are no long-term data available yet.
Challenges include:
- A lack of peer-reviewed evidence supporting its effectiveness
- High costs associated with production
- Potential environmental impacts such as increased water usage
- Uncertainty surrounding long-term efficacy
Local Initiatives
The Australian government’s investment aims to support local businesses involved in growing and processing the seaweed for use by farmers.
Tasmanian-based company SeaDragon Foods Limited was granted $2 million under Round One funding last year after submitting plans for an initial pilot project involving about 200 hectares off Triabunna’s coast near Port Sorell Road.
SeaDragon managing director Mark Cameron stated that he has been working with researchers at CSIRO’s Hobart laboratory since early last year to determine how to best grow asparagopsis locally, ensuring it can be used commercially within Australia’s agricultural sector without negatively impacting marine ecosystems.
He emphasized the company’s commitment to working closely with researchers and stakeholders throughout the development process, ensuring that environmental safety and sustainability remain top priorities.
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