The invisible is the wealth of the future: seaweed, the new brazilian agribusiness
Publicado em 29/05/2025
Divulgação
AgroSea and Rio
Published in May 25th
Agriconscient Show
Broadcasted by Radio Eldorado / Estadao – Brazil
Translated by Teacher Francisco Barbosa Bardhal
As the world urgently seeks solutions to the climate, energy, and agricultural challenges of this century, Brazil is increasingly recognizing the ocean, particularly seaweed, as a key strategic opportunity. Supporting micro and small businesses in this sector can drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth, positioning Brazil as a leader in ocean-based solutions.
Seaweed species like Lithothamnium, Kappaphycus, and Asparagopsis are at the heart of research and innovations connecting soil, plants, and air, regenerating degraded land by naturally fertilizing crops, drastically reducing methane emissions in livestock.
This multifaceted potential was the focus of AgroSea and Rio + Agro 2025, held last Tuesday, May 19, in Rio de Janeiro, where a fresh perspective on Brazil’s blue economy was unveiled.
With COP 30 on the horizon, the focus shifts to science-driven solutions and partnerships between investors, producers, researchers, and policymakers, unlocking the ocean’s potential to drive sustainability, food security, and the global energy transition.
The event brought together researchers from Embrapa Solos and Embrapa Fisheries and Aquaculture, alongside professors, biologists, lawyers, policymakers, and civil society representatives. Notable panellists included journalist and marketing expert Prof. Dr. José Luiz Tejon, Ricardo Madureira (CEO of Orfeu Speciality Coffees), Simon Riess (President of the Brazilian Buffalo Breeders Association, ABCB), Ms.Aline Lazzarotto, from Abiove(Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries), Ms.Juliana Virginio, from CNA/SENAR-RJ (National Agricultural Council -National Rural Learning Service), and Mr.Wilson Nigri (CEO of AgroSea), among others.
Lithothamnium: A Soil Revolution
Rich in calcium and magnesium carbonate, the calcareous algae Lithothamnium sp are gaining traction as a natural acidity corrector and mineral source for degraded soils.
According to Embrapa studies, its application improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient bioavailability while reducing reliance on conventional chemical inputs.
Brazil has over 140 million hectares of degraded land, 16.5% of its territory, according to the Ministry of the Environment (MMA). Globally, 33% of soils suffer moderate to severe degradation according to Food and Agriculture Organization, (FAO).
So, Lithothamnium algae aren’t just an agronomic solution but a social opportunity, reviving unproductive land for agriculture, generating income, and enhancing food security.
Kappaphycus: Plant Nutrition, Planetary Health
Kappaphycus alvarezii, a red algae widely cultivated in tropical regions, is highly effective in producing natural biofertilizers rich in potassium, nitrogen, and phytohormones. These biofertilizers promote plant growth, enhance pest resistance, and increase yields, all while being environmentally friendly.
Compared to synthetic fertilizers, Kappaphycus-based biofertilizers emit up to 80% fewer greenhouse gases, according to the USP - University of São Paulo’s Oceanographic Institute. Its production is low-cost, labor-intensive, and well-suited for coastal family farms, supporting the key pillars of sustainability: economic viability, environmental health, and social development.
Asparagopsis: A Game-Changer for Methane Emissions
No seaweed has made a bigger recent splash than Asparagopsis taxiformis.
As a livestock feed additive, it reduces Enteric Methane emissions by up to 90%( according to the University of Queensland, Australia).
As the world’s leading beef exporter, Brazil has the potential to significantly reduce the climate impact of its livestock sector by adopting this innovative technology. This shift could position our country as a pioneer in low-carbon beef production, providing a crucial competitive advantage in response to the EU’s growing environmental standards and demands.
The Ocean as a Climate, Energy, and Financial Ally
Seaweed is also emerging as a renewable energy source, as in bioethanol, biogas, and a raw base material for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and biodegradable packaging.
It offers integrated solutions for the planet’s biggest challenges: Clean Energy, Food Security, and gas emission reductions.
“Seaweed is Brazil’s new soybean; it will surpass soy’s agro-industrial impact within a decade,” argues Prof. Dr. José Luiz Tejon, Agribusiness Strategist, comparing its transformative potential to soy’s role in Brazil’s economy.
The current challenge is scaling these solutions through effective governance, collaboration among academia, scientific research, and access to capital markets. "Seaweed must transition swiftly from laboratories and oceanic research to widespread agricultural use and global awareness."
From ECO 92 to COP 30: A Legacy of Commitment
Under the slogan “Environmental Stewards Since ECO 92,” AgroSea and Rio + Agro highlighted Brazil’s strategic role in global climate governance.
As Consultant Prof. Cácia Pimentel noted: “A just transition hinges on one question: Who pays for that? ” The answer lies in uniting Science, Governance, and Impact Capital all of them walking hand in hand.
Mr.Ricardo Madureira (Orfeu Speciality Coffees) added: “Brazilian agriculture is a global powerhouse. Our farmers excel, and we’re committed to sustainability.” Seaweed-based solutions, he said, exemplify Brazil’s potential to lead in innovative and climate-smart agriculture.
Mr.Simon Riess,(Oro Bianco Dairy, Brazilian Buffalo Breeders Association) is managing seaweed trials to enhance Calcium in buffalo mozzarella and optimize pasture use.
AgroSea, organization that enhances Agribusiness, incorporating products extracted from marine flora, offers high ROI opportunities for investors willing to innovate and partners for agribusiness players conducting proof-of-concept trials ahead of COP 30’s debates in Brasília, next September 9th.
“Considering 71% of Earth's covered by oceans, we can’t address climate or agriculture without the sea,” pointed out Mr. Wilson Nigri(AgroSea CEO). “For Brazil, seaweed isn’t just an ally, it’s a cause, a market, and a mission.”
In Rio, SEBRAE (Micro and Small Business Support Service and Banco do Brasil took part in the event, showcasing financial tools for Marine Agribusiness entrepreneurs, from microloans to rural credit. Mr.Carlos Favoreto (Rio+Agro) closed the debates, pledging to achieve this "invisible wealth" alongside partner Mr.Paulo Protasio.
Therefore, Brasília opportunities remain open to align with COP 30 and Brazil’s Blue Economy revolution.
*Prof. Dr. José Luiz Tejon – PhD in Education Universidad de La Empresa/Uruguay. Academic Director Brazil+Tropical Belt Nations at International Agribusiness MBA Audencia France & Fecap Brazil. Master's degree in Art Education and History of Culture - Mackenzie University. Journalist and Publicist - Harvard, MIT and PACE/USA/Insead in France. Specialization Academic Coordinator of Master's Science Food & Agribusiness Management at Audencia in Nantes/France, and FECAP/Brazil. Managing Partner at Biomarketing and TCA International. Professional Head at Agri Anefac. Writer, author and co-author of 37 books. Agri Personality Award 2023/ABAG -100 Most Influential People in Agribusiness. Former director of Grupo Estadão, Agriceres and Jacto S/A. 2025 Award Agriworld Group.
