Founded in 2018 by Karen Scofield Seal and Dr. Charlie Bavington, Oceanium was founded to unlock the full potential of seaweed.
Based in Oban on the west coast of Scotland, the company seeks to integrate sustainability into every stage of its work by using green processing technologies that minimize waste while supporting both human health and ocean health. By supporting ocean restoration, biodiversity and coastal livelihoods, the model offers a scalable alternative to land-intensive prebiotics.
Judges for the NI awards noted the application stood out for its ability to create zero-waste, high-value ingredients for nutrition, cosmetics and biomaterials.
“Supported by strong commercial interest and engagement from sustainability stakeholders, Oceanium delivers measurable sustainability impact while remaining scientifically credible and commercially viable,” they said.
Regenerative seaweed platform delivers proven gut health benefits
Oceanium’s circular seaweed platform seeks to combine regenerative seaweed farming, low-impact processing and science-backed nutrition.
Its flagship ingredient, Ocean Actives H+, fully utilizes farmed seaweed to deliver gut health benefits. It is made from regenerative farmed seaweed and produced through a low-waste biorefinery process, meaning the raw material is used to its full potential rather than generating significant byproducts.
Research has shown that Oceanium’s Ocean Actives H+ delivered prebiotic benefits at 250 mg per day. The recent study showed the extract increased beneficial gut bacteria and short-chain fatty acids linked to gut and immune health, while reducing harmful bacteria and inflammation markers. Unlike some traditional prebiotics, the extract caused fewer digestive side effects such as gas and bloating.
UN Sustainable Development Goals
The initiative actively seeks to support multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It restores marine ecosystems and enhances biodiversity through regenerative seaweed farming and nitrogen removal, contributing to SDG 14: Life Below Water.
By applying circular, zero-waste processing methods, it supports SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
The platform also contributes to SDG 2: Zero Hunger by providing sustainable nutrition solutions that do not compete for arable land or freshwater resources.
Through the creation of resilient coastal livelihoods and inclusive employment opportunities across aquaculture supply chains, it advances SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 5: Gender Equality.
In addition, the initiative drives innovation in sustainable blue economy infrastructure, supporting SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.
By 2030, the platform is aiming to process 10,000 tonnes of regenerative seaweed, remove or absorb 1,260 tonnes of CO₂, and eliminate or absorb 200 tonnes of nitrogen from marine ecosystems.