© Klaas Eissens
This year’s theme, Seaweed 2.0: Today’s Scaling for Tomorrow’s Needs, underscored the industry’s need to scale responsibly and collaboratively in response to growing global demand for sustainable solutions.
The event served as a platform to unite stakeholders across the seaweed value chain - including producers, policymakers, researchers, investors and buyers - to foster synergies and build a resilient, scalable infrastructure for the future of the industry.
Field visits
On 17 June, participants chose between two in-depth site visits. At Hortimare, visitors explored the company’s culture collection and cultivation systems, and learned about their approach to breeding and how they support farming operations. Meanwhile, the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ) hosted a scientific meeting in collaboration with the NWO-KIC projects CircAqua, SeaSeeds and From Sea to Society, where attendees discovered seaweed research through a mix of oral and poster presentations.
Innovation and collaboration highlighted
The main conference running from 18-19 June featured five plenary sessions, two panel discussions and the Seaweed Elevator Pitches - a fast-paced format that allowed for broad project exposure and idea sharing. Nearly 50 speakers shared diverse insights on applications, farming practices and regulatory developments in the seaweed sector. The programme also featured sessions such as Professionalising the Seaweed Industry: Learning from Pioneers, Collaboration as a Tool for a Successful Seaweed Industry and Roadmap for the European Seaweed Industry, among others.
These sessions featured a range of notable speakers, including Stefan Kraan (Oceana Organic Products Ltd), Annette Bruhn (Aarhus University), Sander van den Burg (Wageningen Social & Economic Research), Kees Joziasse (TotalEnergies Corbion), Pierre Paslier (Notpla), Christelle Sapata (PwC Luxembourg), Richard Piechocki (Rabobank), and many more.
Dynamic Trade Show and Networking
More than 15 exhibitors presented their latest technologies, equipment and services at the Seagriculture trade show, which was a central hub for networking and hands-on interaction. The exhibition area saw strong engagement, with delegates connecting directly with stakeholders in the industry and exploring new solutions. Additionally, some 30 participants presented posters showcasing their latest research and projects, enriching the scientific and technical discourse.
Kuno Jacobs, managing director at DLG Benelux, organisers of the event, said in a press release: “This year’s edition offered a high-quality programme and meaningful networking opportunities. We’re proud to support the community as it grows and connects.”
Tech-Enabled Networking and Memorable Social Events
This year’s event once again leveraged a dedicated networking app, enabling more than 140 pre-scheduled meetings, real-time updates and streamlined communication among attendees. The tool significantly enhanced engagement and collaboration throughout the event.
A highlight of the social programme was the conference dinner at BlueCity, where attendees enjoyed scenic views of the Rotterdam skyline and river while networking over local cuisine and drinks on a sunny evening.
© Klaas Eissens
