Seaweeds for the Sustainable Blue Economy: A Study from the South East Coast of Bangladesh

Abstract

Bangladesh is blessed with a large maritime area which supports a large number of economically important species. Among these species seaweeds are currently commercially grown at small scale. However, information on socio-economical status of seaweed industry in Bangladesh is very limited. Therefore, this study aimed to understand existing culture methods and their cost, marketing channel and problems with seaweed farming in Bangladesh. Data were collected through extensive survey with relevant stakeholders in the south east coastal zone of Bangladesh. The study found that long-line and horizontal net methods are widely used for seaweed farming in Bangladesh. The study also found that these culture methods are economically profitable. Seaweeds are currently sold locally and unfortunately no proper value chain for seaweed is developed yet. Seaweeds are facing problem related to sufficient credits for starting seaweed farming, proper guidelines for farming and processing of harvested seaweed. This study will be a guide for sustainable seaweed industry expansion in Bangladesh.