### Caribbean Initiative Turns Invasive Seaweed into Valuable Biofuel

In 2011, Caribbean beaches began to grapple with an unexpected and perplexing problem: an overwhelming influx of invasive sargassum seaweed. This issue escalated rapidly, with large mounds of the pungent seaweed carpeting the prized coastlines, causing a stench as it decomposed that deterred tourists. By 2018, the situation had grown so dire that Barbados' Prime Minister, Mia Mottley, declared sargassum a national emergency.

A group of innovative Caribbean scientists and environmentalists are now pioneering a solution by converting this troublesome seaweed into bio-compressed natural gas, a lucrative biofuel. This breakthrough fuel, created at the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Barbados, also utilizes wastewater from local rum distilleries and dung from the island’s indigenous blackbelly sheep, which supplies the necessary anaerobic bacteria.

Dr. Legena Henry, the project's founder and a renewable energy expert at UWI, explained that the initial attempts to use sugarcane for biofuel were thwarted by insufficient supply. Conversely, sargassum, with its seemingly endless availability, presented a more viable option. The idea to transform sargassum into biofuel was inspired by one of Dr. Henry’s students, Brittney McKenzie. Observing the significant resources being used to clear the seaweed from beaches, McKenzie proposed its potential as a biofuel source.

McKenzie’s enthusiasm led to the collection of seaweed samples and preliminary experiments with small-scale bioreactors. The results were surprisingly promising; within just two weeks, they saw significant potential. The project gained momentum, culminating in a $100,000 grant from the Blue Chip Foundation, helping it progress further.

Biologist Shamika Spencer joined the team to fine-tune the mixture of sargassum and wastewater to maximize biogas production. Spencer, originally from Antigua and Barbuda, had a personal interest as she had witnessed the proliferation of this seaweed ruining beaches across the region. She emphasized the dual benefits of this project: mitigating health risks posed by decomposing sargassum, which releases harmful hydrogen sulphide, and protecting native wildlife such as endangered sea turtle hatchlings from being trapped.

While climate change and pollution have contributed to the sargassum surge, Caribbean leaders like Mia Mottley and Antigua’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne have been vocal in demanding eco reparations. In the absence of immediate relief, this project demonstrates the region's proactive stance in addressing its environmental challenges.

Dr. Henry highlighted the importance of repurposing sargassum instead of sending it to landfills. By transforming it into biofuel, they aim to protect tourism and public health. The successful test drive of a biogas-powered Nissan Leaf, facilitated by the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, marked a significant milestone and a moment of exhilaration for the team.

This Caribbean initiative not only offers a practical solution to a pressing environmental issue but also paves the way for a sustainable future, showcasing resilience and innovation in the face of adversity.