"Seaweed is more than just a sustainable crop — it’s a critical solution to decarbonising agriculture. By investing in industry development now, we can create jobs, reduce emissions, and position Australia as a global leader in this rapidly growing market."

A Queensland entrepreneur and sustainability advocate has outlined a vision for how Australia can become a global leader in the rapidly growing seaweed industry, unlocking new economic opportunities while tackling the climate challenge of agricultural emissions.

Jo Kelly, 2022 Nuffield Scholar, has released her report following international study and travel supported by AgriFutures Australia. Her research offers a comprehensive roadmap for accelerating the development of Australia’s seaweed industry — with a particular focus on cultivating the native seaweed Asparagopsis, which has been scientifically proven to reduce livestock methane emissions by over 80%.

“Livestock methane emissions are the biggest contributor to agriculture’s carbon footprint in Australia,” Jo explains. “We need real, scalable solutions — and seaweed is one of the most promising tools we have.”

Jo’s report explores how countries like Denmark, France and South Korea are investing in seaweed research and incentivising methane-reducing feed additives. She highlights the importance of government support, coordinated R&D, and collaborative hatchery models to help scale Australia’s seaweed sector quickly and sustainably.

“Government support for methane reduction is growing globally, and Australia must act now or risk being left behind,” Jo says. “With the right policy settings, we can reduce livestock emissions, support our meat and dairy industries to meet sustainability targets, and create regional jobs in seaweed farming and processing.”

Jo’s findings also examine opportunities for Australian seaweed in food, feed, biostimulants and bioplastics, and emphasise the value of industry cooperation, cooperative processing models and investment in seaweed hatchery networks.

“Australia has the natural resources, scientific expertise and entrepreneurial spirit to lead in this space. But we need targeted investment and policy frameworks to make it happen.”

Jo encourages anyone with a passion for innovation in agriculture to apply for a Nuffield Scholarship. 

“It’s an extraordinary opportunity to travel, connect, and bring global ideas back to your industry and community,” she says.

Jo will present her findings at the 2025 Nuffield National Conference in Adelaide this September.

Jo’s full report is now available on the Nuffield Australia website, providing further insights into her global study and recommendations for Australia’s seaweed sector.

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Applications for the 2026 Nuffield Australia Scholarships are now open.

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A Nuffield Scholarship is your opportunity to explore global best practices, connect with industry leaders, and bring innovative ideas back to your business and community.  

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