Seaweed collection to fertilise local fields

Cooperation among different sectors can strengthen the resilience of a local economy and optimise the use of natural resources. Building on a previous project to remove seaweed from the beaches which would otherwise smother shellfish resources, the Xesalcomp project aims to improve the way the seaweed is composted. This is being achieved by introducing new organic materials (organic waste from wine producers) to the process to improve the quality and agronomic value of the final compost. The ultimate goal is to obtain a quality and sustainable product that can be successfully marketed.

In the past, shellfish gatherers removed the seaweed from their shellfish banks, and piled it up to be used by local farmers as compost. But the lack of quality meant use gradually decreased, and it was left to accumulate, causing environmental problems such as smell and runoff.

As well as mobilising local wine producers and a forestry association, the project also involved the town council and the University of Vigo. The university carried out the analysis needed to achieve the best quality product. The council provided containers, transport and equipment to manage the compost heaps, as well as the land on which to carry out this compost management.