VALORIZATION OF RED ALGAE IN SOUTHERN REGIONS
A DOUBLE APPROACH FOR SUSTAINABLE USE
Two exciting projects aimed at promoting red algae in the Southern Region are being carried out by UM6P-ASARI in collaboration with the Phosboucraa Foundation and Seaweed Company. These initiatives highlight the exceptional potential of these marine plants in terms of biological, agronomic and environmental wealth. By focusing on the collection and valorization of algae, these projects offer economic development opportunities while contributing to sustainable solutions for the production of biofertilizers and bioenergy.
As part of the first project, research was carried out on the collection of red algae in the Amigriou region, followed by the extraction of value-added biochemical substances such as agar-agar, proteins, biofertilizers, biopesticides and bio stimulants.
The second project, carried out in collaboration with Seaweed Company, focuses on the use of local algae species for the production of biofertilizers, bioenergy, and biogas.
These initiatives aim to promote the region's natural resources while providing innovative solutions in the environmental and energy fields.
Solution-oriented scientific research and technological transfer
By exploiting marine resources sustainably, this collaboration contributes to the preservation of biodiversity and the conservation of marine ecosystems. Thus, as part of the first project, a rigorous collection of local species of red algae in Southern Regions was carried out. Tests were then carried out to confirm the properties of the extracts obtained, thus demonstrating their potential in various fields.
For the second project, close collaboration with Seaweed Company enabled to identify and characterize local algae species. Laboratory tests were also carried out to assess the production of biogas and biofertilizers from these nutrient-rich species.
Impact on local communities
These initiatives offer new economic opportunities to local communities, notably by improving the income of villagers who collect seaweed daily. By recruiting post-doctoral students, engineers as well as a doctoral student, and developing partnerships, this project also promotes the strengthening of skills and scientific collaboration at the regional level.
By joining forces in these two projects, Phosboucraa Foundation, ASARI and Seaweed Company are advancing the development of algae in Southern Regions, thus creating new economic opportunities. These initiatives demonstrate the efforts of Phosboucraa Foundation in favor of sustainable development and its desire to develop natural resources responsibly.
of local species of red algae and high value-added extracts
of a patent
30 local species of algae collected and analyzed
3 sites selected for algae cultivation
Installation of bioreactors for the production of biofertilizer/bioenergy from algae at the ASARI laboratory.
2 post-docs, 2 engineers and 1 doctoral student recruited
1 patent was accepted by OMPIC
These two projects contribute to several SDGs by promoting sustainable use of marine resources. Under the first project, the collection and extraction of value-added biochemicals from red algae contributes to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by providing bio insecticides to preserve crops, biofertilizers and bio stimulants to improve agriculture. Additionally, these initiatives support SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by preserving marine biodiversity and conserving marine ecosystems. In the second project, the production of biogas and biofertilizers contributes to SDG 6. Additionally, it supports SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by promoting the production of renewable energy from sources marines. By involving local communities in the collection of seaweed and strengthening skills through the recruitment of post-docs and engineers, these projects also contribute to SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth) by creating new economic opportunities and promoting regional development.
