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Description
The SEAWEED2PLANT project aims to create a marketing channel in the niche market for indoor plants to sell a nutritive solution (fertilizer) developed from by-products of the algae industry in Portugal, as such contributing positively to the efficiency of resource use, in a logic of the circular economy, and also contributing to the reduction goals for inorganic fertilizers set out in the Green Deal.
The project aims to take advantage of non-conforming biomasses from controlled production systems of the high value algae industry in Portugal, to develop a nutritious solution with a view to obtaining an innovative product to be marketed by Generosa startup in a niche market for indoor plants.
The formulation of a nutritive solution (fertilizer) with proven action on indoor plants will be developed, later packaged in a technical and commercially appropriate packaging, properly labeled and ready to be sold.
The knowledge and industry held by the members and team of GreenColab, as well as access to the various facilities and technologies implemented within their collaborative dynamics gives them the ability to develop a formulation of an algae-based product with proven action in indoor plants.
The deep knowledge that startup Generosa has of the target niche market and respective segment gives it the knowledge necessary to prototype an appropriate packaging for the commercial product, considering technical, economic and branding criteria.
As a result of the SEAWEED2PLANT project, companies producing algae now benefit from a new commercial channel for by-products of their activity that, due to the small quantities to which they are produced, are not economically viable for the production of fertilizers for agriculture, but which can find it in the niche market for indoor plants where the startup Generosa operates. Startup Generosa obtains an innovative and commercially competitive product for the fast-growing indoor niche market.
Summary of project results
The Seaweed2plant project was initiated to address critical challenges in the indoor plant care sector and broader environmental sustainability. The project aimed to tackle the issues of high reliance on synthetic fertilizers and the underutilization of algae biomass, which is often discarded despite its potential benefits. In the context of the European Green Deal’s goals, there was an urgent need for sustainable alternatives to inorganic fertilizers that could enhance indoor gardening while contributing to the circular economy. Additionally, the high cost and limited availability of controlled algae production systems posed a barrier to maximizing the potential of algae-based products.
The Seaweed2plant project focused on leveraging algae biomass, particularly non-compliant and excess algae from the industry, to create a value-added, natural fertilizer for indoor plants. Key activities included:
• Development and Prototyping: Formulated a nutrient-rich solution using algae biomass such as Ulva rigida and Chlorella vulgaris.
• Agronomic Validation: Conducted multiple trials with indoor plants to test the efficacy of the formulated solution in promoting plant growth and health.
• Product Development: Designed and tested a commercial prototype, addressing packaging, labeling, and regulatory compliance for the indoor plant market.
• Market Analysis and Promotion: Engaged in market research, participated in trade fairs, and presented findings to industry stakeholders.
These activities were crucial for demonstrating the feasibility of using algae biomass as a sustainable and effective alternative to synthetic fertilizers, especially in the niche market of indoor gardening.
The project positively impacted its beneficiaries by validating a sustainable, effective alternative to synthetic fertilizers for indoor plant enthusiasts, while also demonstrating the viability of algae biomass in new applications.
The project yielded significant results:
• Successful Product Validation: A natural fertilizer product was tested successfully, showing enhanced growth and health of indoor plants. Nevertheless, the commercial prototype didn’t have the same positive aspects. Further formulation development and tests are needed in the future.
• Increased Sustainability: Utilized non-compliant algae biomass, reducing waste and supporting circular economy principles.
• Market Validation and Visibility: The project was presented to the market, including presentations at major horticultural events like IPM Essen and academic conferences.
The Seaweed2plant project is significant for several reasons:
• Environmental Impact: By promoting the use of algae-based fertilizers, the project supports the reduction of synthetic chemical use, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.
• Economic Benefits: It opens new commercial opportunities for algae biomass, providing economic value to producers and fostering innovation in the blue economy.
• Circular Economy: The project exemplifies how waste materials can be transformed into valuable products, contributing to resource efficiency and sustainability.
In the long term, the project’s success can drive further advancements in sustainable gardening practices and the utilization of natural resources, namely wising by-products from European bio-industries, reinforcing the importance of innovative solutions in addressing environmental challenges.