The growing seaweed aquaculture sector is front and centre in Campbell River this week.

The Pacific Seaweed Summit is underway today through Friday, bringing together researchers, industry professionals, Indigenous leaders, government reps and community members from across the Pacific region.

They’re exploring opportunities for seaweed aquaculture as part of the emerging blue economy.

Sessions are taking place at the North Island College campus and the Wei Wai Kum Big House.

Seaweed aquaculture is expected to expand significantly in the coming decades, with Canada’s coastal regions positioned to play a role in the developing industry.

British Columbia is home to more than 600 species of native seaweed, offering conditions suited to cultivation and innovation.

The province and federal government are also supporting projects tied to seaweed development, including research initiatives at North Island College.