Supporting local communities

Rich in natural minerals, seaweed is used as food, livestock feed additive and ingredient in many other products. It has been scientifically proven that some species, including Ulva lactuca or sea lettuce, are super foods that provide people with healthier lifestyle choices. 

Although the Philippines is one of Asia’s leading seaweed producers, stakeholders have yet to realize the full potential in the ubiquitous marine algae. 

An archipelago with more than 7000 islands, the Philippines has an abundant and renewable seaweed source. Belonging to the macro algae species, the sea lettuce grows rampantly in many beaches in the country and often prevents much needed sunlight to reach marine life in shallow waters, causing potential damage to marine ecosystems and impairing local tourism.

Harvesting sea lettuce does not only generate livelihood for coastal communities but also helps clear shorelines for fishermen, marine life and tourists.

Trading Room saw the opportunity to tap into this abundant resource, turning something initially deemed as rubbish of the sea into a rich mineral source while providing jobs in local communities. 

With this in mind, the company started its first venture in seaweed harvesting in 2012. Since then, the company has consistently been working with coastal villages in the Philippines.