1. Sustainable Food and Employment Source: Sea weeds can grow really fast; almost 30 times faster than land plants with no or very less human touch, without the use of fertilizer or pesticide or even scarce freshwater or arable land, making it an environmentally friendly and a sustainable food source. With a 7500 km coastline, India has a potential seaweed farming area of around 1 million hectares, which could provide livelihood for over 1 million people in the near future.
2. Carbon Capture: It is not just sustainable but restorative as well. It produces 70% more oxygen and absorbs 20 times more CO2 than the land based plants, making it a potent tool for fight against climate change and global warming.
3. Nutritional Value: Seaweed is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. It is particularly high in iodine, which is essential for thyroid function. It can also contain up to 70% protein. Because of its nutritional value, it is increasingly being used in nutraceuticals, skincare industry, animal feeds and for direct human consumption as well.
4. Versatile Ingredient: Love your sushi? Of course, you do! You might as well know that that tasty Nori is a seaweed. Seaweed can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, and sushi. It can also be processed into products like snacks, seasonings, and condiments.
5. Industrial Uses: Seaweed is increasingly finding its use as a raw material in various industries. Its use as a Biostimulant in agriculture can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and maintain both soil and human health. From pharmaceuticals to ice creams, cold drinks & beer, seaweed derivatives are used in multiple industries as an important raw material.
6. Biodiversity: Seaweed forests provide habitat for various marine species and promote biodiversity in coastal ecosystems.
So, in short, Seaweed is indeed a super plant and has innumerable immense ecological, social and industrial benefits. No wonder, the governments all over the world including India are promoting its cultivation. Even our honorable Prime Minister, Sh. Narender Modi has personally shown deep interest and commitment towards the Seaweed industry and its potential.
