Knowledge Measures

There is a need to adapt to the rough offshore conditions while making installations sea-proof and applying multi-use approaches. Longlines in offshore seaweed farms have to resist strong forces. In the past, these longlines did not resist these conditions and got (partly) detached. Using special ropes with a bit of stretch, similar to ropes used by the shipping sector can be a solution. Floats and buoys can be attached with specialised locks to avoid losses. The robustness of seaweed installations in offshore environments is very important. It should be constructed without the use of small loose parts and by welding all ends to prevent any loss. Extreme weather conditions demand extra precautionary measures related to the type and design of equipment used, the location of the farms and operational procedures. Internal trainings to improve the handling and fixing of materials is needed. Foster cooperation with universities doing material research including the impact of different materials on the environment. The biodegradation issues of bioplastic materials in a marine environment should be considered. If an item is a consumable or lost frequently, it must be biodegradable. Biodegradable means that it is made of natural materials, not containing plastic in any form. We must differentiate between consumables (single or short use materials) and durables (long use materials) and create guidelines and specifications for the two types of materials and equipment Material design must be different for e.g. high-performance items (longer re-use) or for high-risk items (short use, high risk of loss).