FIRESEA – Harnessing Invasive Seaweed to Combat Fire Blight | MARE | Polytechnic Institute of Leiria

Led by Carina Costa Felix and hosted by MARE and Politécnico de Leiria,  this project explores the bioactive potential of the invasive seaweed Asparagopsis armata to combat Erwinia amylovora, a bacterium threatening Rocha pear orchards in Portugal. By developing a sustainable alternative to traditional pesticides, FIRESEA seeks to mitigate both agricultural and ecological challenges, aligning with SDGs 2, 14, and 15.

Project Objectives and Goals

FIRESEA aims to explore the bioactive potential of the invasive seaweed Asparagopsis armata as a sustainable means to combat Erwinia amylovora, the bacterium responsible for fire blight in Rocha pear orchards. The project seeks to develop eco-friendly alternatives to traditional pesticides, addressing both agricultural and ecological challenges.

Methodology and Expected Outcomes

The research involves extracting bioactive compounds from Asparagopsis armata and assessing their efficacy against Erwinia amylovora. Laboratory and field trials will determine the feasibility of using these compounds as biopesticides. The project anticipates developing a sustainable plant protection product that mitigates the impact of invasive species and reduces reliance on chemical pesticides.

Impact and Significance

FIRESEA addresses multiple Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). By turning an ecological problem into a solution, the project exemplifies innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture and invasive species management.

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FAM Foundation is committed with the sustainable development goals, Blue Carbon in Algarve project impact the following SGD's.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.