Published on 11 April 2025
Key challenges hindering the growth of the algae industry across Europe – and the research & innovation priorities needed to overcome them.
Introducing the Publication Report
The "Bottlenecks Limiting the Development of the Algae Sector" publication – developed by EABA (European Algae Biomass Association) – is now available via the European Union’s Publications Office. It’s the result of an extensive mapping of EU-funded algae-related projects and highlights the most pressing research needs across the sector.
Compiled through detailed analysis and insights gathered via the EU4Algae platform’s dedicated projects database, the publication report serves as a vital resource for stakeholders, industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers aiming to align efforts and investments with the sector’s most urgent innovation priorities.
Purpose of the Publication Report
The "Bottlenecks Limiting the Development of the Algae Sector" publication report aims to address the remaining bottlenecks slowing down the development of a robust and sustainable algae sector in Europe. It does so by:
- Summarising major knowledge gaps across the algae value chain
- Outlining the specific needs of both the microalgae and seaweed sub-sectors
- Proposing targeted research and innovation (R&I) topics to accelerate technology transfer and market readiness
It serves as a key reference to streamline R&I activities, shape policy directions, and support future algae initiatives in Europe.
Key Bottlenecks and Challenges
The report identifies several critical obstacles that limit algae sector growth, including:
- Inefficient cultivation technologies (e.g. photobioreactors, offshore farming systems)
- Issues with contamination, logistics, and labour availability
- Fragmented regulatory frameworks and low user awareness
- Underdeveloped biomass processing technologies and small-scale production
- Market limitations and knowledge gaps concerning demand and application potential
While bottlenecks differ between microalgae and macroalgae due to cultivation techniques, processing methods, and market applications, both face overlapping challenges in downstream operations, technology transfer, and commercialisation pathways.
Methodology and Insights
The findings are grounded in a detailed mapping of past and ongoing algae projects supported by the EU, using the project database hosted on the EU4Algae platform. By drawing from this broad knowledge base, the report not only identifies recurring barriers but also points to where targeted R&I can have the highest impact.
Examples of priority innovation areas include:
- Optimising photobioreactor (PBR) design for microalgae cultivation
- Advancing algae-based bioremediation and biorefinery systems
- Developing scalable downstream processes
- Enhancing environmental tolerance in seaweed farming
European vs Global Context
The report also explores how European algae production compares to the global landscape. Unlike regions with fewer environmental and regulatory constraints, Europe must balance technological advancement with labour costs, strict food safety laws, and high sustainability standards. These factors both challenge and drive innovation within the EU algae sector.
Inside the Report
The "Bottlenecks Limiting the Development of the Algae Sector" publication report is divided into several thematic sections that guide the reader through the complexities of bottleneck evaluation. These include:
- Objectives and the relevance of bottleneck evaluation
- Algaculture concepts shaping bottleneck understanding
- Key challenges across algae biomass production
- Regulatory and perception-based hurdles
- ... and more.
Access the Report
Learn more by accessing the "Bottlenecks Limiting the Development of the Algae Sector" publication report document and explore how research and innovation can unlock algae’s full potential as a key pillar of Europe’s sustainable bioeconomy.
Additional information
Join the #EU4Algae conversation and keep an eye on the EU4Algae Forum to stay updated on ongoing activities, initiatives, and sector updates.
Got questions? Contact us at: contact@eu4algae.eu.