From Waste to Wheels: The Innovative Use of Sargassum Seaweed in Biofuels

Researchers transform invasive seaweed into bio-compressed natural gas, potentially revolutionizing energy production while tackling tourism decline.

Amid rising concerns over climate change’s impact on tourism, Caribbean nations are making strides toward renewable energy solutions. A group of dedicated scientists and environmentalists has found an innovative way to transform the pesky sargassum seaweed, which has plagued local beaches since 2011, into bio-compressed natural gas (bio-CNG), offering a promising eco-friendly fuel alternative. The project, spearheaded by researchers at the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Barbados, marks a shift from seeing invasive seaweed as a nuisance to recognizing its potential as a renewable resource.

Sargassum seaweed, known for its foul odor and tendency to wash ashore in large quantities due to climate change, has significantly impacted Caribbean tourism. As local governments struggled to manage the unsightly algae, Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley ultimately declared it a national emergency in 2018. The innovative research team, however, aims to turn this crisis into opportunity. Their pioneering vehicle, powered by bio-CNG, integrates sargassum with wastewater from local rum distilleries and dung from indigenous blackbelly sheep, utilizing anaerobic bacteria in the process.

The conversion to bio-CNG is feasible and accessible, taking around four hours and costing approximately $2,500, allowing traditional vehicles to transition to this sustainable fuel source. Initially focusing on sugarcane to reduce dependence on expensive fossil fuels, researchers discovered that sargassum was an abundant alternative. Dr. Legena Henry, a renewable energy expert and project founder, emphasized that the seaweed would never run out, unlike sugar sources.

The transition from nuisance to resource began when student Brittney McKenzie proposed exploring sargassum’s potential after witnessing the significant efforts to remove the seaweed from beaches. Preliminary experiments led to promising biogas production results. Gaining traction, the team eventually garnered $100,000 in funding from the US non-profit Blue Chip Foundation after presenting their findings at the UN General Assembly.

Biologist Shamika Spencer expressed her enthusiasm for participating in the project, noting the health risks and wildlife dangers sargassum poses. By repurposing the seaweed, not only can the tourism sector be preserved, but local air quality can be improved. Plans are underway to establish a biogas station, demonstrating the project’s scalability, aiming to fuel up to 300 taxis in Barbados.

Both Dr. Henry and her husband, data scientist Nigel Henry, have leveraged their expertise to launch Rum and Sargassum Inc., with ambitions of commercial viability in renewable energy. Fundraising efforts are focused on international development banks and organizations with an interest in sustainable initiatives.

As the team continues its work, they envision further innovations, including sargassum-based pest control products. Dr. Henry describes the project as a beacon of hope for the Caribbean, which has long sought to address climate change challenges while highlighting the importance of sustainable development for small island nations. The success achieved so far signifies a remarkable leap for the region, showcasing the power of collaboration, resilience, and ingenuity in turning an environmental challenge into a transformative energy solution.