Harvesting & Processing

Sustainable Practice 

A Sustainable Practice

Harvesting and processing seaweed present a unique opportunity for Scotland to drive sustainable economic growth while protecting its rich natural environment. With an extensive coastline and abundant seaweed resources, Scotland is perfectly positioned to lead in this thriving industry. Seaweed harvesting supports local economies, especially in rural and coastal communities, by creating jobs in collection, processing, and manufacturing industries such as biostimulants, food products, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Environmentally friendly and sustainable, seaweed farming requires no freshwater, arable land, or chemical inputs, aligning with Scotland’s goals for a circular economy and carbon neutrality. Additionally, it enhances marine biodiversity, supports carbon sequestration, and protects against coastal erosion. By investing in innovative processing techniques, Scotland can strengthen its position as a global leader in marine biotechnology, meeting the rising demand for sustainable seaweed products while preserving its natural heritage.

Our understanding of the benefits of seaweed extract are increasing all the time through independent scientific research and trials.  But, it is well known that the use of seaweed in agriculture is nothing new.

It has been known for millennia that seaweed is rich in essential nutrients and has served as a natural fertilizer, enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth. Coastal communities across the globe have long harvested seaweed to enrich their fields, utilizing its high mineral content, including iodine, potassium, and nitrogen, which are crucial for healthy crops. In addition to its agricultural benefits, seaweed has been a vital component in animal feed. Its nutritious profile boosts livestock health, improves digestion, and enhances growth rates. Historical records from various cultures, including the Celts, Vikings, and Japanese, indicate the widespread use of seaweed in feeding animals, particularly in coastal regions. Modern studies validate these traditional practices, showing that seaweed supplements can improve animal immunity and productivity. This ancient practice, rooted in sustainability, continues to offer ecological and economic benefits in contemporary farming and livestock care.

Why Seaweed?

Seaweed in horticulture is not a new phenomenon. It has been used as a  soil improver in crop cultivation for millennia. Modern agronomy has been dominated by chemistry based product development which is valuable but, is not the full story.

Harvesting

&

Processing

Grown wild in the clean North Atlantic ocean, on the shores of the UK & Ireland, Ascophyllum nodosum (knotted wrack) is primarily hand harvested by the local community and dried in situ providing a sustainable industry and support for local communities.

Science

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Quality

The Crop Smith Ltd. is continually running trials on different crops to establish robust data illustrating where the benefits of seaweed products are. Knowing how a product should be applied, and what to expect, is as important as the content of the product itself.

Product

Range

We provide a wide range of seaweed products that are being used across the globe on potatoes, cereals, fruit, nuts, and hydroponic crops, amongst others. Unlike other liquid seaweed extracts CS1 is completely soluble, very high in bioactive compounds and designed for blending, formulating and tank mixing.

Publications

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News

The Crop Smith Ltd. uses scientific methodology to provide new insights into for the uses of seaweed. Articles and publications are posted on our website regularly.  Nothing but quality information.

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