Sustainable Utilization of Posidonia Oceanica

Abstract

This paper aims to identify opportunities for the application of Posidonia Oceanica, a type of seagrass widespread along the Mediterranean coast, to generate environmental and economic benefits. The case of Santa Pola, a Spanish coastal town, was studied due to the large quantities of Posidonia Oceanica that wash ashore and can, therefore, pose waste management problems. The article examines multiple uses for this seagrass, including composting, construction materials, arts and crafts, furniture, and temporary fabrication laboratories. Each opportunity was assessed for environmental, economic, and sociological effects. By harnessing Posidonia Oceanica, Santa Pola can transform an environmental challenge into a catalyst for sustainable development, enhancing both the natural environment and the economic resilience of the community. This approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and circular economy, potentially positioning Santa Pola as a model for other Mediterranean coastal towns.

To reference this paper: 

Zobiri, S., 2024. Sustainable utilization of Posidonia oceanica: The case of Santa Pola, Spain. In Towards Circular: Analysis of the coastal areas of Greece, Italy and Spain. Edited by Skupchenko, J.K. Think Tank AlterContacts. Available at: https://www.altercontacts.org/publications/towards-circular-2024/es-sd-2 

DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.21461.64480

Introduction

The objective of this paper is to find opportunities to utilize Posidonia Oceanica, a common seagrass in the Mediterranean coastline, to generate value and support sustainability management. This seagrass is often washed ashore in large quantities and classified as waste; however, it possesses the potential to create environmental and economic benefits for coastal communities. The primary focus will be on Santa Pola, the Spanish coastal town. 

Nowadays, there is a growing emphasis on sustainability and the circular economy. This shift is driven by increased awareness of environmental issues and the need for more efficient resource use. Finding ways to deal with residual organic materials can have significant positive impacts on both the environment and the economy. Despite being viewed as coastal pollution, Posidonia Oceanica offers prospects for developing environmentally friendly products and involving the community in sustainable practices. Turning this seagrass into resources, we can not only reduce environmental impact but also boost economic opportunities for Santa Pola and more globally Mediterranean coastal towns.

This article will explore opportunities for using Posidonia Oceanica, such as composting, creating construction materials, producing arts and crafts, and making furniture, and introduce educational projects, such as pop-up Fab Labs. Each opportunity will be presented with its advantages, potential obstacles, and initial practical methods for implementing these opportunities.

Exploring these uses aims to showcase how Posidonia Oceanica could serve as an element for promoting sustainable growth in Santa Pola, which is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), towards environmentally conscious lifestyles and circular economic principles.

Methodology

The methodology in preparing this article included the following steps:

1) Understanding the context of the town, its location and geography, demographics and economy, tourism and culture, infrastructure and services, and environmental and historical significance. this step aimed to build a comprehensive understanding of Santa Pola’s socio-economic and ecological landscape to suggest relevant applications for Posidonia Oceanica.

2) Understanding Posidonia Oceanica, its biological and ecological role, current uses and environmental impact, and local effects on Santa Pola. 

3) Exploring potential applications of Posidonia Oceanica via thorough research to identify various ways it can be utilized (e.g., composting, construction materials, furniture, etc.). For each identified use, the author documented key details, including description, examples, local application, and target audience.

4) Evaluating the fit for Santa Pola, such as ease of implementation, costs, profitability, and usage.  based on the evaluation, the author assigned a grade to each potential solution, helping to prioritize which solutions warrant further exploration.

5) Once the most viable solutions were identified, the author conducted deeper research into their feasibility, impact, and implementation strategies. The research findings were tailored to the specific context of Santa Pola, ensuring that the proposed solutions align with the broader goals of sustainability and economic development.

Introduction to Santa Pola

This section provides brief information on Santa Pola's geographical position, economic activities, and cultural life. Knowledge of these factors is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of the suggested methods for utilizing Posidonia Oceanica.

Geographical Overview 

Santa Pola is a Spanish city situated in the province of Alicante within the autonomous community of Valencia. It is located in the southeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula and has a Mediterranean climate typified by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The town presents some of the most picturesque beaches, clean water, and diverse sea life, which attract many tourists and nature enthusiasts. 

Economic Activities 

The population of Santa Pola, approximately 31000 inhabitants in 2018 (INE), earns its living mainly through the service sector and tourism, fishing industry, and salt production. Tourism is a major economic activity, attracting visitors with its beaches, water sports, and historical sites such as the Castillo Fortaleza de Santa Pola. Through tourism, jobs are created as businesses such as hotels, restaurants, shops, and other enterprises flourish, thereby boosting the town's economy (World Scientific, 2007). Additionally, the fishing industry is well-developed, with Santa Pola hosting one of the largest fishing ports along the Mediterranean coast. This industry not only provides job opportunities for locals but also supplies fresh seafood products for consumption and sale. Similarly, the salt flats of Santa Pola are among the largest salt-producing regions in Europe, contributing significantly to the economy and providing employment (Euromarina, 2014).

Community and Culture 

Santa Pola is a culturally rich town, and its heritage is mainly associated with maritime culture. The people are industrious and very much in touch with their cultural heritage and the environment. The town is famous for many celebrations and events, which are regarded locally as very significant. Some examples of landmarks and festivals are the Virgen Del Carmen, a religious event celebrated among fishermen to honor their patrons; Moors and Christians, a parade, and mock battle events. They not only help preserve the cultural identity of the town but also attract people to the region, thereby contributing to the growth of cultural tourism. 

Posidonia Oceanica and its Impact on the City

Understanding Posidonia oceanica is essential to appreciating its ecological significance and the challenges it poses for coastal management. This section provides an overview of its biological role, the general challenges of dried-up Posidonia on beaches, and the current situation in Santa Pola.

Biological and Ecological Role 

Posidonia Oceanica, also known as Neptune grass or Mediterranean tape weed, is a species of seagrass native to the Mediterranean. "It forms vast underwater meadows that are crucial for the marine ecosystem, providing habitat, food, and breeding grounds for fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and other marine creatures" (Pergent-Martini et al., 2021; Jose A. Cañada, 2014). Posidonia Oceanica plays a significant role in carbon sequestration, capturing and storing large amounts of carbon dioxide in its biomass, thus helping to mitigate the effects of climate change (Lorenzo Mari et al., 2021). Additionally, these seagrass meadows contribute to coastal protection by reinforcing the seabed and minimizing the impact of wave action and currents on the coast.

General Challenges of Posidonia Waste on Beaches 

Posidonia Oceanica often washes ashore and becomes stranded on beaches, creating serious management challenges for coastal communities. These extensive deposits of seagrass can be aesthetically unappealing and emit foul odors during decomposition, potentially deterring visitors. Managing and maintaining these deposits requires cleaning efforts that can be quite costly (Naturdive, 2023).

However, there is a growing awareness of the potential positive impacts of Posidonia. Rather than viewing it solely as a waste, communities are beginning to explore innovative uses for this natural material, turning a management challenge into an opportunity for sustainable development (IUCN, 2021).

Current Situation in Santa Pola

Waste management and beach cleanliness in Santa Pola are considerably challenging due to the presence of Posidonia Oceanica on its beaches. Large quantities are deposited on them every day. While the seagrass plays a significant ecological role under the sea, its accumulation on the shore has little positive impact. The municipal council must allocate substantial resources to regularly clean and maintain the beaches, ensuring they remain appealing to visitors. The expenses incurred in cleaning the seagrass and removing it from the beach may range between 3 to 5 million euros per annum, which puts a financial strain on the local government.

On the other hand, there are numerous positive effects if the potential of Posidonia Oceanica is well understood and capitalized on. In this manner, Santa Pola would be able to tackle the issues related to Posidonia Oceanica and work towards the betterment of the environment while also planning for the future in terms of economic growth. Santa Pola and the surrounding areas can thus manage an environmental issue as a growth and development opportunity for the local community while also maintaining the local environment. 

Opportunities to Mitigate the Impact of the Seagrass

The presence of Posidonia Oceanica on the beaches of Santa Pola presents both a challenge and an opportunity. This seagrass poses issues with waste disposal and impacts tourism. However, it is possible to transform this challenge into a beneficial resource. In this paper, we highlight several possible applications of Posidonia Oceanica for the benefit of Santa Pola’s economy and environment.

Composting

The waste from Posidonia Oceanica can be composted, which will result in nutrient-rich organic fertilizer. This process entails collecting washed-up seaweed from the beaches and composting it in a controlled environment. The resultant compost can be used in the farming and gardening of plants to enhance soil fertility. Composting involves the decomposition of organic matter into a stable and nutrient-dense form called humus, which improves the soil's quality and structure.

Some of the environmental advantages of composting Posidonia Oceanica include seagrass waste management. The process is also effective in reducing methane emissions since a large quantity of Posidonia is diverted from landfills; it also conserves landfill space. Furthermore, composting contributes positively to the health of the soil by adding organic materials to make it more porous and retain more water and nutrients. Additionally, it enhances the growth of other beneficial microorganisms that are vital in the development of healthy soil (P. Castaldi et al., 2002).

Considering the economic aspect, the following benefits can be derived from composting Posidonia Oceanica. It minimizes the use of chemical fertilizers, hence cutting the costs of inputs for farmers and gardeners. It also creates an opportunity to sell organic compost, which can be helpful to local farmers and gardeners. This practice could also provide employment in the collection, processing, and distribution of compost, thus boosting the local economy.

The social impacts are also compelling. By involving local communities in sustainable practices, composting fosters a sense of environmental stewardship. It also creates public awareness on the importance of proper waste management. Additionally, by promoting the production of healthier and organically grown food, composting has a positive impact on consumers, as they get an opportunity to access healthy crops.

Still, there are a number of challenges related to implementing composting Posidonia Oceanica. Harvesting and transporting Posidonia waste to composting sites can be a logistical problem. For this reason, on-site manufacturing is the most suitable, as it would enable more effective control over the Posidonia fiber and ensure a zero carbon footprint. Another concern is how to control odors throughout the process so as not to pose a problem to neighbors. 

Nevertheless, the possibility of composting Posidonia Oceanica is still very viable. The process is quite simple and can be implemented with little to no technical knowledge. The main principles of composting and simple composting structures and processes are quite clear and straightforward. The start-up costs can be relatively low, and they include the cost of composting bins, transportation, and minimal structures. Recurring costs include human resources and maintenance. The demand for organic compost is also on the rise due to the growing popularity of organic farming. Also, Posidonia Oceanica is easily accessible along the beaches of Santa Pola, which means that there will be a steady source of material for composting.

There are good market applications for Posidonia-based compost. The farmers in the locality can benefit from using the compost to enhance the health and production of the soil in agriculture (B2B). It can also be helpful for home gardeners and landscaping companies for use in gardens and lawns (B2C). For this initiative to be effectively and widely implemented, it may require collaboration with local governments, agricultural groups, and environmental organizations. Local governments can work together to regulate waste collection and the allocation of sites, agricultural associations can encourage the use of compost, and environmental NGOs can advocate for the project.

Manufacturers in Greece and Spain, such as "Compost," have already proven the feasibility of composting Posidonia Oceanica. Biological compost production has been implemented in Greece through Posidonia Compost and in Spain through "PosiGreen," which proves the effectiveness of this approach.

Construction Material

Applying Posidonia Oceanica in construction would provide innovative solutions for sustainable buildings, especially their thermo-insulating properties. Posidonia fibers can be used for the production of composite boards, panels, and insulation materials, and they offer high thermal and acoustic insulation (D. Garcia-Gracia, 2017). These materials are quite robust and environmentally friendly, thus minimizing the adverse effects. This application aims to reduce the use of conventional materials that are expensive and damaging to the environment, thus introducing sustainable and efficient alternatives to construction materials and methods (A. Maciá Mateu, 2010).

There are many environmental gains that can be obtained from using Posidonia Oceanica in construction. First, it reduces the use of conventional resources, including wood and plastics, that are used in the construction of other structures. Posidonia fibers have a lower carbon footprint than synthetic materials, thus supporting efforts to address carbon footprint reduction.

From an economic perspective, these products can create new market opportunities for eco-friendly building materials since people are demanding eco-friendly buildings. This strategy generates a sustainable business model by offering unique eco-friendly construction products. Furthermore, the positive impact of Posidonia-based materials on eco-friendly-certified buildings contributes to sustainable tourism, whereby visitors are attracted to sustainable destinations, and the local tourism industry is boosted. 

The social impact is also favorable since the harvesting, processing, and manufacture of products based on Posidonia will create jobs. It also helps to create local industries and enhance sustainable development. These materials contribute to the creation of healthier living environments by limiting the application of toxic chemicals used in conventional construction materials. 

It is important to consider issues as well. Technical development requires bringing advanced methods and processes into the industrial domain without disturbing the seaside. Also, while they are biodegradable and more eco-friendly compared to synthetic materials, their longevity and durability in different applications need to be assessed critically. Another challenge lies in market acceptance, which means that consumers and builders should be informed of the advantages and possibilities of using materials based on Posidonia. Code compliance and meeting other requirements for new materials in construction can also be a challenge. 

Various research articles and documents from sources support the feasibility. The level of complexity entails investment and modification of current manufacturing systems to harness Posidonia fibers. The start-up costs are relatively high because of the need for equipment and facilities, but the follow-on costs are moderate, mainly in terms of raw material collection and processing. The market has moderate to high profitability due to the increasing number of consumers who prefer to use sustainable building materials that have the potential to generate high revenues. 

Posidonia has a vast market and application in the construction materials industry. B2B construction companies and builders who are interested in eco-friendly products constitute a significant target audience. For B2C, homeowners and DIY (Do It Yourself) consumers who seek environmentally friendly home improvement products are potential customers.

The following are some of the partnerships that can be imagined for the implementation of this initiative. It is crucial that the local construction companies are engaged and involved in the field testing and marketing of the Posidonia-based products, which makes collaborating with them an essential element to ensure success. Working with universities and research institutes for continued R&D can help foster technological developments. Some help can also be sought from government agencies.

The most important characteristic is that the production process should be environmentally friendly and avoid waste and CO2 emissions. Therefore, manufacturing as close to the beach as possible is essential. Moreover, adherence to building codes and norms ensures safety and reliability of structures. 

An example of this initiative can be observed in a pilot of "LIFE Reusing Posidonia Project" based in Formentera (CINEA). It effectively utilized Posidonia Oceanica fibers in a construction material application for the insulation of buildings of a local eco-resort. These panels offered better heat insulation, and the project was aimed at reducing environmental impact and energy consumption. The initiative also showed that Posidonia-based materials are viable and attractive to tourists interested in environmental protection, thus positively influencing local tourism.

Arts and Crafts

Posidonia Oceanica fibers are used in arts and crafts projects, and they are woven, molded, or incorporated into various products like ornaments, beads, and other artifacts. This practice has several environmental advantages. First, it contributes to the utilization of dried-up Posidonia. Second, it promotes the use of environmentally friendly materials, such as Posidonia fibers, which are natural and fully biodegradable. Lastly, it raises ecological consciousness by focusing on the role of the sea and the necessity of its preservation.

From an economic perspective, it has several implications. It generates new markets for eco-friendly art and crafts that locals and tourists can consume. It creates revenue sources for local artists and artisans, thus helping the local economy. It appeals to tourists who are environmentally conscious and in search of new, sustainable items.

From a social side, it promotes community participation and involves it in the sustainable utilization of resources while creating an environmentally conscious society. It supports and encourages the local handicraft industry and preserves cultural heritage by supporting the traditional arts and knowledge. Moreover, it can include workshops and events that educate about the principles of sustainable living and the possibilities of using natural materials for artistic purposes.

However, it is challenging to make Posidonia fibers appropriate for different craft products and maintain the fibers' consistent quality. It is equally challenging to identify how the seagrass could be used, and due to its unique characteristics, it may require the assistance of artists and material specialists to devise methods and possibilities for using Posidonia. Furthermore, the development of a market for Posidonia-based crafts and creating awareness of their value among consumers would require effort in strategic marketing.

This initiative's possibility is backed up by the example of other similar successful projects and information found in sources such as “A Jewel Made in Greece.” These materials can be incorporated into local artisans’ current activities. Initial costs are relatively low and would mainly be associated with the collection and processing of the Posidonia. The project mentioned has a low to moderate return on investment based on the market for eco-friendly craft products. With proper marketing and advertising, these products can attract premium prices on the market.

The market for Posidonia-based crafts creations is broad. They can be marketed to eco-friendly stores, hotels, and restaurants (B2B). For B2C, the consumer can acquire the product directly from markets, e-commerce sites, and tourist stores. Another idea is workshops for tourists who want to create their own eco-friendly jewelry while they are staying in Santa Pola. With the rise of eco-consciousness, all these applications can be very successful and attract both individuals and businesses.

Local artists and artisans should be involved in testing the use of Posidonia to ensure the successful implementation of these creative initiatives. Collaborating with tourism boards can attract tourists keen on purchasing environmentally friendly goods and services. Cooperating with environmental NGOs can help promote sustainable crafts and attract public attention to the issue.

Furniture

Posidonia fibers can be used to make different types of furniture, from simple pillow filling to indoor decorations. The positive impact of using the seaweed in furniture on the environment is high. Posidonia fibers are bio-degradable and have a lower carbon footprint than synthetic materials, thus reducing carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions.

From an economic point of view, it opens opportunities for the sale of environmentally friendly furniture made by local manufacturers and artisans for use by residents and tourists. This furniture would be affordable because the material is relatively cheap. Also, such an initiative may contribute to tourism; Posidonia furniture in restaurants, hotels, and beaches can become the trademark of Santa Pola and the region and attract people who are concerned with the environment.

The social impacts include the community's involvement in sustainable activities and environmental preservation. Posidonia furniture also helps maintain healthier homes since it minimizes the chemicals that are used in regular furniture. In addition, if beautifully designed, furniture made from Posidonia can be used to decorate local businesses and public areas and increase the attractiveness of Santa Pola.

Examples of similar projects are Alex Mint’s Oceanides Collection and Design for Posidonia by Santa & Cole, where they used the plant to create the green dye. The level of difficulty is moderate, and support from material specialists is required to guarantee that the furniture is strong and durable. The local artisans and manufacturers can be trained to work with these materials. The setup costs may be low and may only include tools and equipment and training of artisans, while the recurrent costs will involve the acquisition of raw materials and their processing. The profitability can be moderate to high, mainly due to the increasing consumer interest in eco-friendly products. An advantage is an ample supply of Posidonia.

The obstacles, market applications, and collaborations necessary for the successful usage of Posidonia Oceanica in furniture making are similar to those mentioned earlier.

Pop-up Fab Labs

Temporary Fab Labs or Pop-up Fab Labs equipped with tools and materials for learning and creative projects are one way of ensuring that innovation continues. Such labs could be set up in beachfront restaurants during the off-season and aim to raise awareness among young adults about sustainable living, marine conservation, and the circular economy through the use of Posidonia Oceanica. Activities would include workshops on utilizing Posidonia, collaborative initiatives to develop sustainable products, and educational programs on environmental topics.

These labs would raise awareness of the role of Posidonia Oceanica in the ecosystem and encourage the use of biodegradable and sustainable materials in the design and manufacturing processes. By encouraging the reuse and repurposing of natural materials, the labs would help reduce waste and contribute to resource conservation.

The pop-up Fab Labs would provide young people with practical skills in design, craftsmanship, and sustainable processes that will help them in future employment. Furthermore, these labs encourage young people to innovate and commercialize eco-friendly products, which may create business opportunities. Thus, the labs would contribute to the local economy by promoting an innovative, sustainable entrepreneurship culture.

Community engagement is an essential aspect of Fab Labs since they include the residents in the sustainability initiatives and promote environmental consciousness (M. García-Ruiz, 2022). The labs offer educational experiences that cannot be obtained in a conventional classroom setting, thus improving the educational process with practicability as opposed to theory. In this way, the labs could help promote youth engagement in solving environmental problems, creating sustainable solutions, and contributing to youth empowerment.

Pop-up Fab Labs are viable due to their flexibility and low physical infrastructure requirements. Closed restaurants during the off-season make a suitable and cost-effective location for the program. Start-up investments involve buying tools and materials, arranging the work area, and paying facilitators; recurring costs are relatively low and consist of paying facilitators/mentors, replacing material/equipment, and upkeep. Even though the main aim is education, there is room for revenue generation through product sales developed in the labs, sponsorships, and grants.

The challenges associated with implementing pop-up Fab Labs include obtaining the appropriate tools and materials and finding a specialized facilitator. Identifying experts in materials, entrepreneurship, and sustainability to work with young people is essential. Since the youth participants will be involved in the program, maintaining their engagement and interest requires effective communication and participation strategies. It remains essential to ensure that all activities and projects are sustainable and safe. Proper safety measures while handling tools and equipment are crucial in preventing injuries among the participants.

The market opportunities for pop-up Fab Labs are vast. Educational programs and workshops that target young people and their families are a potential market that can be harnessed. Engaging the local business and environmental sectors to support the initiative and implement sustainable measures can increase the scope of the project and its effects. Some of the partnerships that would help in the successful implementation of pop-up Fab Labs include mobilizing local schools and universities, environmental NGOs, and local businesses.  

The Design for Posidonia by Santa & Cole already shows the possibilities of Posidonia usage in educational settings. This project aims to raise awareness and manufacture furniture made of green-dyed Posidonia, thus demonstrating its potential as an environmentally friendly material.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that Santa Pola has great potential to convert Posidonia Oceanica into a valuable asset for the environment, economy, and residents of the town. Some innovative strategies that the city can adopt in using the Posidonia are composting, construction material, furniture, arts and crafts, and pop-up Fab Labs, which can contribute to sustainability and the circular economy.

All these undertakings would not only help in waste management but also offer new employment opportunities, empower local craftsmen and merchants, and enhance social participation. For instance, recycling Posidonia Oceanica can improve soil fertility and decrease the use of chemical fertilizers. Recycled products such as construction materials and furniture can be used to attract tourists who care about the environment and support local artists. Arts and crafts may help sustain culture and create products for the tourism industry. The pop-up Fab Labs can inform and inspire the local youth and educate them in sustainable innovation.

Through the extensive Posidonia Oceanica available in Santa Pola, the municipality can turn a problem into an opportunity, leading to sustainable growth. This approach is consistent with the general tendency towards sustainable development and an environmentally friendly lifestyle, putting Santa Pola on the map of progressive cities with sustainable development and a locally owned economy.

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