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New study reveals star role of seaweed in struggle against climate change

KAUST · Aug 6

KAUST researchers from the Red Sea Research Center (RSRC) and Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC) found macroalgae DNA prevalent in the open ocean, up to 5,000 km from coastal areas. 69% of drifting macroalgae sinks below 1,000 m depth, sequestering carbon in deep ocean waters. The study used metagenomes generated by global ocean expeditions Tara Oceans and Malaspina, analyzed via KAUST's DMAP platform and Shaheen supercomputer. Why it matters: The findings confirm the role of macroalgae in carbon sequestration, highlighting their importance in blue carbon assessments for climate change mitigation and underscoring KAUST's contribution to environmental sustainability research.

KAUST converts Red Sea seaweed into economic and environmental value

KAUST · Jan 21

KAUST is collaborating with Coastline Company to convert Red Sea seaweed, specifically Sargassum, into valuable commodities. This initiative addresses the environmental hazard of decomposing seaweed blooms and promotes local employment and a circular economy. KAUST is exploring the use of Sargassum to produce fabric raw materials, alginate for food, biostimulants for agriculture, and fucoidans for therapeutic applications, processing it in a biorefinery manner. Why it matters: This project aligns with Saudi Arabia's sustainability priorities and demonstrates the potential of marine biomass in various industries, including fashion through collaboration with the Saudi Fashion Commission and PYRATEX®.