PEBL-Hatch: Modular, semi-automated high-value seaweed seed production system

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PEBL-Hatch aims to design and implement a modular, semi-automated seaweed seed production system that aims to incubate high-quality seaweed seed materials for marine aquaculture businesses across the UK.Social distancing measures and travel restrictions have meant the UK's single seaweed seed production facility is unable to deliver its services \[https://www.sams.ac.uk/about/covid-19/\]In addition, demand for health products relating to seaweed sourced from Europe has seen up to triple-digit growth \[foodnavigator.com, May 2020\] due to increased attention on health credentials, provenance, transparency and food packaging as a response to COVID-19\. Lack of UK-produced supply has forced customers to buying from abroad (raising bio-security complications).Additional opportunity: Evidence highlights the potential of seaweed as an effective immunotherapy against coronavirus \[Dordick, Nature Comms., July 2020\].This system will improvement on existing facilities; 1\. Facilities are optimised for culturing high-value seaweed seeds focusing on immunity-boosting food applications 2\. Through a modular, low-impact, semi-automated design that reduces operational cost, energy usage and environmental footprint whilst allowing for social distancingThis project translates sensor and automation technologies (specific to water quality measurement and control) to a new aquaculture protocol in view of creating a commercially viable seaweed seed production operation.