Atlantic sea farms

Solution: Our ocean is changing – and Maine’s coastal economy is now almost entirely dependent on one species: lobster. But there is hope - Mainers are known for ingenuity, stewardship, and fierce independence. That’s why we knew that working with our own local fishing communities to cultivate kelp was the best way to build a first-to-market supply chain and improve the health of our coastal environment and economy in the process. Together we are helping to diversify coastal incomes, reduce ocean acidification, and, by working alongside our neighbours, grow, harvest, and share delicious, sustainable, and mineral-rich sea greens with the world. We identify, and work with, fishermen throughout the coast of Maine to help them start their own kelp farms. We provide technical assistance to help these farmers get farm leases, set up their gear, learn how to seed and harvest, and support their business planning. We also provide free seeds to all of our farmers and guarantee purchase of their crop. Atlantic Sea Farms also creates award winning products to grow a market for Maine grown kelp, and increase awareness of how kelp aquaculture can be a tool in fighting the effects of climate change on our oceans and economies.

Why is innovation to transform ocean health important to you: “Consumers are looking for food choices that fight climate change, giving them a tool to take direct climate action in their everyday lives. But the products have to taste good, be easy to consume at home, and have a viable supply chain. By activating a completely vertically integrated business model and marketable products, Atlantic Sea Farms is seeing growth and scalability, but it is only the beginning. For us to be able to make a lasting impact on the health of our oceans and the coastal economies that depend upon them, we have to scale, and fast. The Gulf of Maine is warming faster than 99% of oceans worldwide, and here we are singularly reliant upon the lobster fishery. By providing ways for fishermen to diversify into regenerative kelp aquaculture, we can help buffer the impact climate change will have on their livelihoods, while empowering them to improve the health of the oceans they depend on, all while adding a carbon negative, nourishing food to the global supply chain.” - Rebecca Percasky, Co-founder