A south Connemara abalone aquaculture farm is one of over 100 ocean farming and marine businesses across Europe participating in an international study on the “challenges and benefits of a nature-positive economy”.
The Western Development Commission (WDC) and Trinity Business School are collaborating on the “GoNaturePositive!” research project, which was launched by Minister of State for Nature and Heritage Malcolm Noonan.
The Horizon Europe-funded initiative led by Trinity Business School involves 20 partners across 14 countries.
Cindy O’Brien, marine biologist and owner of Abalone Chonamara Teoranta, is one of the Irish “nature-positive” aquaculture businesses participating in the Irish pilot.
“We are delighted to participate in this research. While there is much scientific evidence about the benefits of abalone, seaweed and other forms of mariculture for storing carbon, much less research is looking at new opportunities for growth and scaling,” she said.
“ There is huge potential for seaweed to be integrated into biodegradable materials for the bioeconomy for example, as well as for food and bio-pharmaceutical ingredients,”O’Brien said.
“ We need to start cultivating these raw materials and we urgently need more research and financing to support the growth of these types of climate-resilient, nature-positive businesses,”she added.
The research aims to provide “more clarity” on “the concept of a nature-positive economy”, and “provide guidance for businesses and policy makers on the priorities for transformation”.
Noonan said that the outcomes from the research “will help to inform government policy and provide guidance on the delivery of our new Irish National Biodiversity Action Plan”.
“The Irish government recognises that we need to radically change the way in which we value nature. The ring-fencing of €3,15 billion for climate and nature spending between 2026 and 2030 demonstrates our commitment to a nature-positive transition,” he said.
WDC chief executive Allan Mulrooney said that the blue economy is a key priority for the western region of Ireland, “reflecting our dedication to exploring sustainable development within this sector”.
“We are keen to engage with businesses of varying sizes to navigate this evolving landscape together,” he said.
“ Recent research highlights the potential benefits of directing more investment towards environmentally conscious initiatives, like ocean farming,” he added.
“ While this presents an exciting opportunity, it also allows us to consider how such strategies could foster economic vitality and environmental well-being across our region, benefiting a broad spectrum of stakeholders,” Mulrooney said.
Six pilot studies of nature-based enterprises form the main focus of the research. These range from ocean farming and marine businesses in Ireland to bee-farming in Colombia and regenerative farming in Belgium.
Carbon-neutral forestry and nature-positive tourism in Italy and green building enterprises throughout Europe are also involved in the research.
For more information about the project and to get involved, visit here.