Collaboration between Cermaq and a Norwegian kelp startup

Our aim is to foster the growth of a novel industry that not only offers environmental advantages but also creates employment and has a cascading impact. We are thrilled to initiate this project in collaboration with Cermaq, a leader in climate and environmental matters, states Tarald Sivertsen, the chairman of Folla Alger's board. The recent UN climate report has underscored the need for actions that align with the 2-degree target of the Paris Agreement to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Aquaculture and seafood are pivotal to the green transition, and algae can help cut emissions and serve as an alternative feed ingredient. Working with research institutions Some nutrients discharged from salmon cages are water-soluble. These nutrients will nourish the algae, leading to enhanced carbon sequestration. Algae are integral to the green transition, and we strongly believe in the potential of algae production as an industry of the future. This is why we have partnered with SINTEF, NOFIMA, Nord University, and NTNU, leading research institutions, to explore the development of kelp production, says Knut Ellekjær, the CEO of Cermaq Norway. Circular economy The research project aims to fully test a new kind of facility for the integrated production of salmon and kelp. The project will examine how the nutrients from the salmon cages are absorbed by the kelp, the impact of kelp production on the aquatic environment within the cages, and the effect of integrated production on the health of the caged fish. Moreover, the project seeks to transform kelp into a new feed ingredient for salmon. The integration of salmon and kelp farming allows us to use the nutrients around the farming cages as a resource and provides us with more alternative feed ingredients. This is a sound circular economy strategy that will help lessen the environmental impact of salmon farming, says Knut Ellekjær. The future of aquaculture holds immense potential. Hence, I find this collaborative project very intriguing. Algae are crucial for marine life and could play a significant role in future food provision. I wish Cermaq and Folla Alger the best of luck in their future endeavors, says Odd Emil Ingebrigtsen, the Minister of Fisheries and Seafood. Cermaq has also been involved in kelp production in BC, Canada, through co-production trials with several First Nations, to test commercial kelp production. The projects were spearheaded by the Centre for Applied Research at North Island College.