GES4SEAS proudly announces a pioneering initiative led by the National Institute for Marine Research and Development (NIMRD) in Romania. This newly funded project aims to transform the perception and utilization of green algae along the Romanian Black Sea coast. 

Despite the general view of seaweed as a nuisance to tourism, this project seeks to highlight the invaluable ecosystem services provided by these marine plants. Focusing on green algae species, especially Ulva rigida and Ulva intestinalis, that are known for their beneficial compounds, the project explores the vast potential of these algae beyond their presence on beaches. 

The core of the project is a pilot study designed to cultivate Ulva species under controlled laboratory conditions. This effort not only aims to provide a consistent source of algal material, independent of natural availability, but also to investigate the extraction of ulvans—compounds known for their antioxidant, anticancer, and other health-promoting properties. 

As we embark on this journey, we aim to showcase the commercial and ecological potential of seaweed wrack, emphasizing its role in sustaining marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. This initiative aligns with GES4SEAS’s comprehensive goal of guiding marine governance towards sustainable ecosystem services delivery. 

We look forward to sharing more about this project as it unfolds, aiming for a deeper understanding of seaweed’s potential benefits.