ALGAEBLU – Development of sustainable macroalgae-based supply chains for the blue bioeconomy of Emilia-Romagna by Università di Ferrara

The ALGAEBLU project aims to develop sustainable macroalgae-based value chains along the Emilia-Romagna coast by transforming locally available seaweed (often treated as a low-value by-product) into a strategic resource for high-value bioactive compounds used in the food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical sectors. Building on previous research that has already characterized the nutritional and chemical profile of several local species, the project seeks both to expand the identification of new functional molecules and to develop environmentally friendly extraction processes capable of producing high-quality ingredients. Through an integrated workflow that includes biomass collection, pre-treatment, green extraction technologies, chemical and physical analyses, and in vitro testing of biological activity, ALGAEBLU aims to create functional ingredients and nutraceutical prototypes tailored to market needs. The initiative also supports regional decarbonization: macroalgae naturally absorb significant amounts of CO₂ and excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, contributing to climate mitigation and improved coastal water quality. By turning these marine resources into new products with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties, the project has the potential to improve public health, reduce waste, and stimulate new entrepreneurial opportunities across the blue bioeconomy. Challenges (mainly related to regulatory approval for new food or nutraceutical ingredients) will be addressed by focusing on species already recognized as edible, such as Ulva, and by advancing promising in vitro research that can attract future industrial stakeholders. The partnership includes Con.Uno, Istituto Delta, and laboratories of the Emilia-Romagna High Technology Network involved in the Valdimar-ER project, along with industry partner Coswell, ensuring strong scientific, technological, and industrial grounding.