From Waste to Wealth: Caribbean Scientists Transform Sargassum into Sustainable Fuel

Researchers from the Caribbean are revolutionizing their approach to sargassum by converting this invasive seaweed into a promising bio-compressed natural gas, potentially reshaping the region's energy landscape.

An unlikely hero has emerged from the shores of the Caribbean: sargassum seaweed. Once considered an unsightly nuisance as it washed ashore in large quantities, this invasive algae is now at the center of a groundbreaking initiative aimed at turning waste into a valuable resource.

Since 2011, when sargassum began inundating Caribbean coastlines, local communities have grappled with its foul smell and the impact on tourism. In 2018, Barbados recognized the threat posed by sargassum and declared it a national emergency. However, a team of forward-thinking Caribbean scientists and environmentalists has embarked on a mission to convert this problematic algae into a sustainable biofuel.

At the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Barbados, researchers have recently unveiled the world’s first vehicle powered by bio-compressed natural gas derived from sargassum. In a novel twist, the fuel source is complemented by wastewater from local rum distilleries and dung from indigenous blackbelly sheep, which is essential for the necessary anaerobic bacteria.

Dr. Legena Henry, a key figure in the project, explained that transforming cars to run on this gas can be accomplished through a straightforward installation process that takes just four hours and costs around $2,500. This innovation is not merely a temporary fix; it seeks to reduce the Caribbean's dependency on imported fossil fuels while aiming toward the ambitious target of zero emissions.

The original idea to harness sugarcane for biofuel was deemed unfeasible due to insufficient local production. However, the abundance of sargassum prompted a paradigm shift after student Brittney McKenzie suggested using the dumped seaweed. Initial experiments were promising, prompting the research team to take their findings public and secure a $100,000 backing from the US's Blue Chip Foundation.

Biologist Shamika Spencer, another integral part of the research team, highlighted the dire consequences of sargassum on health and biodiversity. Not only does the algae contribute to atmospheric hydrogen sulfide when decomposing, but it also threatens native wildlife, including critically endangered sea turtle hatchlings.

The project is part of a broader movement among Caribbean nations seeking eco-reparations for climate change, often inflicted upon them by larger nations. Until those reparations materialize, initiatives like converting sargassum into fuel provide communities with a proactive approach to manage their environmental challenges.

The success of a recent test drive featuring a biogas-powered Nissan Leaf capped off a whirlwind of excitement for the team, which includes the husband-wife duo of Dr. Henry and data scientist Nigel Henry. The couple is steadfast in their commitment to leverage their skills in developing sustainable energy solutions in their home region.

With plans to initiate a pilot program featuring multiple vehicles and seek further investment from international agencies, the UWI team is setting the stage for broader applications of sargassum beyond automotive fuel, including biogas stations and agricultural products.

For members of the research team—like Brittney McKenzie, who had her moment of inspiration witnessing the transportation of sargassum—the project showcases the power of innovative thinking in overcoming local challenges.

It stands not only as a testament to the capabilities of small island nations but as a potential model for addressing global challenges related to climate change and sustainable energy. "Sargassum has the potential to be a game changer," said Dr. Henry, envisioning a future where Caribbean innovations can benefit communities worldwide.