Sustainable materials for kelp restoration and aquacultureEcosystem Services

Ethan Clark¹

¹Newcastle university, UK

With rising demand for sustainable aquaculture and marine restoration, there is increasing interest in eco-friendly materials that can be used as a substrate for macroalgal attachment that alleviate the drawbacks of conventional plastics. This study adapts existing aquaculture techniques, specifically the use of seeding on strings and ropes, and applies these methods to seaweed restoration. Materials investigated include natural fibers such as jute, wool, and cotton, alongside synthetic options including nylon and polypropylene. Given the current challenges faced by the UK wool industry, which has seen a steep decline in demand, this research also explores the potential for surplus wool to serve as a sustainable resource in marine applications, thereby supporting local economies. Seaweed lines were deployed in the intertidal zone, where growth rates and density were monitored over time to assess the effectiveness of each material in supporting restoration. Additionally, the attachment strength of juvenile seaweeds on these lines was measured at varying flow rates within a controlled flume environment. By combining sustainable material testing with aquaculture seeding techniques, this study aims to advance methods for enhancing seaweed growth and survival, ultimately contributing to sustainable restoration practices, and exploring new uses for UK wool in marine contexts.