International Seaweed Symposium to wash up in Greater Victoria, Canada in 2025

Greater Victoria in BC, Canada, is gearing up to welcome industry experts, academics, Indigenous Peoples and students at the 25th International Seaweed Symposium from 4-9 May, 2025. There is an array of over 10,000 known species of seaweed found in various coastlines worldwide, and seaweeds captivate scientists, environmentalists, and culinary enthusiasts alike. From the towering kelp forests swaying beneath the oceans’ surfaces, to the delicate and intricate patterns of red, green, and brown seaweeds that adorn rocky shores, their ecological importance and versatility cannot be overstated. The conference in BC will be held under the theme of ‘Building on the past to propel the seaweed momentum’. The International Seaweed Symposium (ISS) is a triennial event organised by the International Seaweed Association (ISA). The governing council of ISA determines the location of each symposium through a comprehensive bid process and, for the 2025 symposium in Victoria, Dr Kate Moran, president and CEO of Oceans Networks Canada at the University of Victoria, is co-leading the organising committee which is already immersed in planning. Representatives from Cascadia Seaweed, the Pacific Seaweed Industry Association, and Professional Conference Organisers, Venue West, make up the organising committee, which is also still seeking volunteers. “Canada has the longest coastline in the world and our coastal waters are rich with life,” explains Moran. “The International Seaweed Symposium is the foremost international meeting for individuals and organisations who conduct seaweed research, advance its protection, farm and harvest seaweed, and develop seaweed products. We are thrilled to be hosting the next symposium in Canada and look forward to welcoming global leaders in this field to exchange ideas, learn from each other, forge new partnerships, all while enjoying the beautiful coastal settings of Vancouver Island, British Columbia.” “Greater Victoria provides an exceptional setting for the International Seaweed Symposium,” said Paul Nursey, CEO of Destination Greater Victoria. “The region has a strong commitment to advancing the marine sector and seizing related opportunities. By hosting the symposium, we can further our economic development objectives while showcasing our region’s remarkable talent, educational institutions, and cutting-edge research facilities to esteemed global academics and industry leaders.”