North Sea Farmers
North Sea Farmers, operating as the European Seaweed Association, is a non-profit foundation with ANBI/PBO status based in The Hague. It represents the interests of the European seaweed industry and works with a network of more than 130 members to support the sector’s development. The organization positions itself as a sector platform rather than a seaweed producer. Its role is to advocate for the industry, help connect parties in the network when needed, and provide information and promotion around seaweed. It also supports projects and pilots that help move seaweed from a promising resource toward a more established industry. Its work spans seaweed cultivation, offshore testing, sector roadmaps, and applications such as food, packaging, biostimulants, and production systems. The organization frames seaweed as a versatile marine resource with potential for sustainability, raw material security, and employment growth. Core Values Sustainability : Seaweed is presented as a resource that can support more sustainable food systems, materials, and marine use, while also contributing to cleaner oceans and ecosystem benefits. Collaboration : The organization emphasizes working with members, stakeholders, researchers, and project partners to build shared sector knowledge and practical solutions. Innovation : Its roadmaps, pilots, and offshore test infrastructure are designed to accelerate learning, standardization, and scale-up for a developing industry. Sector development : A central value is helping the seaweed sector mature into a fully fledged industry with stronger market share, raw material security, and employment potential. Unique Aspects More than 130 members : The association speaks on behalf of a broad European membership base, giving it a sector-wide role rather than a single-company perspective. Offshore Test Site : It operates what it describes as Europe’s largest offshore test site, located about 12 km off the Scheveningen coast and covering 6 km², for testing innovations in offshore conditions. Multi-use offshore focus : Its projects include seaweed, mussels, nature restoration, and energy applications, reflecting a strong emphasis on multi-use of offshore space. North Sea Farm 1 involvement : Known news indicates the organization operates as North Sea Farmers and was involved in North Sea Farm 1, a seaweed farm in the Hollandse Kust Zuid wind farm supported by a €1.5 million Amazon fund for establishment and scientific research. ANBI/PBO status : The foundation has public-benefit status, which supports its non-profit mission and allows tax-advantaged donations.