Seaweed aquaculture (farming/cultivation)
As with traditional marine aquaculture (Finfish and Shellfish farming), we aim to steer seaweed farming/cultivation towards the most suitable locations and adoption of the best practices to safeguard Scotland’s nature and landscapes.
Seaweed aquaculture is an emerging industry in Scotland’s coastal waters and has the potential to provide a significant contribution to Scotland’s marine economy.
Seaweed farming can result in positive or negative impacts on the marine environment. NatureScot is supportive of the sustainable development of the industry, delivering good development in the right places. This is line with the Scottish Government Seaweed Cultivation Policy Statement and with our approach to planning and development.
Our role in seaweed aquaculture
NatureScot is not a regulatory body, we are advisors and statutory consultees for aquaculture developments for regulators such as Marine Directorate and local planning authorities). For guidance on when to consult NatureScot, please visit our “How and when to consult NatureScot Checklist” page.
We provide standing advice /guidance on various aspects of seaweed aquaculture, this includes:
- Site selection
- Collection of reproductive material
- Entanglement
- Biosecurity
- Non-Native Species
Applications seeking to cultivate seaweed in Scotland should have regard to this guidance.
Relevant commissioned research
Goodship, N. & Furness, R.W. 2019. Seaweed hand-harvesting: literature review of disturbance distances and vulnerabilities of marine and coastal birds. Scottish Natural Heritage Research Report No. 1096.
Cook, E.J., Payne, R.D. & Macleod, A. 2014. Marine biosecurity planning – Identification of best practice: A review. Scottish Natural Heritage Commissioned Report No. 748.
