What is OCEANIUM?
OCEANIUM develops and makes innovative, functional seaweed ingredients for food, health, and materials – driving systemic change to benefit People Health and Ocean Health. Founded in 2018 by Karen Scofield Seal (CEO) and Dr. Charlie Bavington (CTO), the company is united by a passion for unlocking seaweed’s potential. Their proprietary green processing technology extracts maximum value from sustainably farmed seaweed, producing high-purity bioactive ingredients for health and cosmetics, known as OCEAN ACTIVES, as well as superfood ingredients for humans and pets under OCEAN HEALTH NUTRA and OCEANIUM PET. Beyond that, OCEANIUM is also developing a range of innovative materials, including a fully biodegradable, seaweed and water-based ink called OCEAN INK, designed for packaging and textiles – offering sustainable alternatives to resource-intensive products.
Main Benefits of OCEANIUM’s Approach
Seaweed is a low-resource crop requiring no land, freshwater, or fertilizers, making it a game-changer in addressing food security and mitigating climate change. Here are some key facts and figures that highlight OCEANIUM’s impact:
- Founded in 2018 by two passionate leaders focused on seaweed innovation.
- Uses proprietary green processing technology to minimize waste and maximize ingredient purity.
- Produces bioactive ingredients for health, cosmetics, and superfoods for humans and pets.
- Developing biodegradable seaweed-based inks for sustainable packaging and textiles.
- Seaweed farming requires zero land, freshwater, or fertilizers, reducing environmental footprint.
- Supported by major investors like World Wildlife Fund, Green Angel Ventures, and Sustainable Ocean Alliance.
- Backed by European Union funding for cutting-edge seaweed R&D and scale-up projects.
Innovative Technology and Sustainable Processing
OCEANIUM’s proprietary biorefinery technology and green chemistry processes are at the heart of their innovation. This technology ensures that every part of the seaweed is used efficiently, minimizing waste and maximizing the extraction of valuable bioactive compounds. The green processing approach not only benefits the environment but also promotes People Health and Ocean Health by producing clean, high-quality ingredients. This is a big deal because it sets a new standard for sustainability in the seaweed industry, showing that eco-friendly methods can go hand in hand with cutting-edge science.
Collaborative R&D and Industry Partnerships
OCEANIUM pioneers research and development alongside key stakeholders across the entire seaweed value chain. From farmed seaweed suppliers to equipment manufacturers and customers, the company works closely with partners to ensure high-quality products and optimal production methods. This collaborative approach helps to push the industry forward, creating a more resilient and sustainable seaweed ecosystem. It’s not just about making ingredients; it’s about building a whole industry that benefits everyone involved, from coastal communities to global consumers.
Vision for the Future
The vision at OCEANIUM is clear: to lead in developing next-generation seaweed ingredients that deliver environmental, social, and economic benefits. Their work advances food security, ocean health, and coastal livelihoods, creating a positive ripple effect across multiple sectors. By focusing on sustainable seaweed farming and innovative ingredient development, OCEANIUM is helping to build a future where the ocean’s resources are used wisely and responsibly – a future where both people and the planet thrive.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger – Enhancing food security through sustainable seaweed-based superfoods.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Producing bioactive ingredients that promote health.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Utilizing green processing technology to minimize waste.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Supporting climate change mitigation by promoting low-resource seaweed farming.
- SDG 14: Life Below Water – Advancing ocean health through sustainable seaweed cultivation.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaborating with investors, governments, and industry stakeholders.
Support and Funding
OCEANIUM is fortunate to have a strong network of supporters committed to its mission. Investors include Builders Vision, World Wildlife Fund, Green Angel Ventures, Sustainable Finance Initiative members, Katapult Ocean, and Sustainable Ocean Alliance, along with angel investors from around the world. The company also benefits from ongoing support by the European Commission – CINEA, Research Executive Agency (REA), Innovate UK, and Scottish Enterprise, which help fund industry-defining seaweed R&D and scale-up efforts. This backing enables OCEANIUM to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable seaweed innovation.
