Mass producing algae, no matter the environment

Susewi’s algae-production process has proven successful in the extreme heat of the dessert as well as cold and rainy environments

Spotted: The UK-based Susewi can grow mass quantities of algae by only relying on seawater, the sun and wind, allowing it to produce alternative protein in regions that where it would otherwise be impossible, such as desert climates. The algae are then harvested, desalted and dried into a meal that can be incorporated into products like fish feed. 

Susewi’s process can recreate natural algal blooms minus the freshwater that would normally be needed. Each strain begins in a laboratory environment before moving to a greenhouse environment. After a period of cultivation, it ends up in one of Susewi’s outdoor ponds, where nature takes over to bring the algae to its final bloom state.  

“We have shown that the process is successful in all climates and across all the seasons, from the rain and cold of a South African winter to the 50-degree heat of a desert summer,” Keith Coleman, Susewi’s founding CEO, told the Advocate. “Governments are interested because it uses natural resources and provides food security and employment.” 

Since 2013, SuSeWi has grown into a production facility that boasts the world’s largest algae growth pond, located in the coastal desert of Morocco. The ultimate aim is to be the world’s largest algal producer. 

Springwise has been tracking the many innovative ways algae can be used in materials, food and medicine, from its use in developing footwear and high-performance skis to kelp burgers and vaccines.