From Eyesore to Asset: How Sargassum Seaweed Could Fuel Cars and Save Caribbean Tourism
The Caribbean's pristine beaches faced an environmental crisis in 2011 when massive amounts of invasive sargassum seaweed began washing ashore. This pungent, unsightly algae wreaked havoc on tourism-dependent islands, such as Barbados and Antigua. However, a pioneering group of scientists has discovered a way to turn this environmental disaster into a sustainable energy solution:
sargassum-based biofuel.
The Rise of Sargassum: A Climate Change Dilemma
Sargassum, linked to rising sea temperatures and water pollution, poses serious challenges. Its decomposition releases hydrogen sulfide, threatening human health and endangering marine life, including critically endangered sea turtles. The Caribbean, already battling rising sea levels and worsening storms, now faces this additional environmental challenge.
In 2018, Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley declared sargassum a national emergency. But where others saw a problem, scientists saw potential.
Sargassum as a Renewable Biofuel
A research team at the University of the West Indies (UWI), led by renewable energy expert Dr. Legena Henry, developed an innovative process to convert sargassum into bio-compressed natural gas (bio-CNG). The fuel also incorporates wastewater from rum distilleries and dung from blackbelly sheep, creating a unique formula.
Key Steps in the Innovation:
- Collecting Seaweed: Student Brittney McKenzie spearheaded initial research by collecting sargassum from beaches.
- Experimentation: Biologist Shamika Spencer refined the gas production process by testing different ratios of sargassum and wastewater.
- Test Drive Success: The team’s successful test of a Nissan Leaf powered by bio-CNG marked a significant milestone.
Scaling Up: From Pilot to Commercialization
The project requires substantial investment to expand. Dr. Henry estimates a need for $2 million to prove its viability and $7.5 million to fuel 300 taxis in Barbados. Potential funding sources include the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the European Union, and development banks.
Broader Impact: Tourism, Health, and Energy Independence
Repurposing sargassum not only protects tourism by clearing beaches but also prevents health hazards. The project aligns with the Caribbean’s broader goals of achieving energy independence and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Dr. Henry and her husband, Nigel Henry, co-founded Rum and Sargassum Inc, aiming to revolutionize energy production in the region. The team also plans to explore other uses for sargassum, such as developing eco-friendly pest control products.
A Sustainable Future
Turning sargassum from a crisis into a resource exemplifies the Caribbean’s resilience and innovation. This groundbreaking biofuel project could transform the region’s energy landscape while safeguarding its environment and tourism industry.