Tarifa turns invasive seaweed into energy and fertiliser with innovative project

by Lorraine Williamson
Tarifa invasive seaweed

The coastal town of Tarifa in southern Spain is taking bold steps to tackle a persistent environmental issue—invasive seaweed infestations—while creating sustainable energy and biofertilisers.

This cutting-edge project, developed in collaboration with Poplac Development and Futuralga, aims to transform the seaweed menace into an opportunity for environmental and economic benefit.

Addressing the seaweed plague

Since 2019, Tarifa’s beaches have been overrun by Rugulopteryx okamurae, an invasive species that has disrupted marine ecosystems and become a costly nuisance. Currently, over 40,000 tons of seaweed remain stored at the local wastewater treatment plant due to the high expense of transporting it to landfills. Across the coastline between Tarifa and Algeciras, an estimated 100,000 tons of this seaweed has accumulated.

The new project involves an experimental bioreactor designed to process 15,000 tons of seaweed annually into biogas and sustainable biofertilisers. By addressing the root of the problem, this initiative provides a practical, eco-friendly solution to a growing environmental challenge.

From seaweed to energy and fertiliser

The bioreactor technology converts the seaweed into biogas, which can be used to generate electricity or heat. Any residual material from the process is repurposed into biofertilisers, offering a sustainable alternative for agricultural use. This circular approach not only reduces waste but also provides valuable resources for the local economy.

The project, which costs €1 million, follows the success of a similar initiative in Mexico. It is highly efficient, requiring just two employees to oversee operations and capable of producing enough energy to supply a quarter of a megawatt annually.

Environmental benefits: Cutting methane emissions

Beyond energy production, the project also reduces methane emissions, a greenhouse gas with 28 times the warming potential of CO₂. By processing the seaweed in a controlled environment, the release of harmful gases is mitigated, further contributing to climate change efforts.

Also read: Researches explore beneficial uses for invasive seaweed

Challenges and support

Despite its potential, the bioreactor project cannot entirely clear the vast amounts of seaweed washing up on Tarifa’s shores. Additional government funding will be essential to scale up operations and fully manage the influx of algae. The project, however, represents a significant first step in alleviating the burden on local infrastructure while setting a precedent for sustainable coastal management.

Leading by example

Tarifa’s approach could become a model for other coastal communities in Spain and across Europe, many of which face similar challenges with invasive species and marine waste. By turning an environmental problem into an opportunity, this initiative not only addresses the local seaweed crisis but also highlights the potential for innovation in sustainability.

A greener future for Tarifa

With this project, Tarifa is taking strides toward solving a long-standing issue while embracing sustainability. As the initiative moves forward, it offers hope not only for restoring the region’s beaches but also for driving a greener and more resource-efficient future. The success of this project may pave the way for similar solutions in other coastal areas, creating a ripple effect of environmental and economic benefits.

Also read: Coral colonies near Tarifa

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