KAUST researchers have developed new techniques to produce nutritious microalgae in industrial volumes using seawater-adapted Spirulina and Chlorella strains. This innovation eliminates the need for freshwater, making algae-based livestock feed production sustainable and economically viable. The new Saudi Center for Algal Biotechnology Development and Aquaculture will scale up operations from a 1,000 square meter pilot plant to 42,000 square meters. Why it matters: This could help Saudi Arabia decrease its dependency on imported feed and raw food materials, aligning with its Vision 2030 goals for increased domestic food security.
KAUST researchers cultivated the extremophile microalga Cyanidioschyzon merolae, which thrives in hot, acidic conditions, using commercial fertilizer at lab and outdoor large-scale culture. This was part of the Development of Algal Biotechnology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (DABKSA) project, a collaboration between MEWA and KAUST. The microalgae consume pollutants and CO2 to produce biomass like proteins and oils, which can be used as sustainable animal feed. Why it matters: This positions Saudi Arabia as a potential leader in algal technologies, strengthens food independence, and contributes to the country's carbon net-zero goal by 2060.
KAUST research scientist Dr. Maged Saad is working on unconventional methods for global food security within the Desert Agriculture Initiative. His research involves using selected strains of bacteria to increase salt tolerance and crop productivity in desert plants. Dr. Saad aims to convert this technology into a marketable product by securing intellectual property rights, testing prototypes with Saudi farmers, and establishing a startup. Why it matters: This research aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals to enhance local agricultural production and promote sustainable solutions for food security in arid environments.
KAUST, the National Livestock and Fisheries Development Program (NLFDP), and the National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture (Estidama) are collaborating to explore algae-based biostimulants for agriculture. These biostimulants, derived from marine algae, enhance plant growth and nutrient uptake without the negative impacts of chemical fertilizers. KAUST already operates a commercial-scale algae manufacturing plant capable of producing tons of algae per month for biostimulant production. Why it matters: This initiative positions Saudi Arabia as a leader in sustainable food technology by leveraging algae biostimulants to improve soil health and reduce dependence on imported raw materials.
A workshop on "Scaling Algal Production Technologies for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia" was held at KAUST from November 10-12, 2013, with attendees from government, industry, and academia. The workshop addressed algae's role in food security and its link to the food and pharmaceutical industries in Saudi Arabia. Participants reviewed the latest scientific work, the high-tech investor landscape, and mechanisms for partnerships in algal biotechnology. Why it matters: Although this event happened in 2013, it shows the early commitment of Saudi Arabia and KAUST to exploring biotechnology solutions for food security, an ongoing priority in the region.