Green tides on the Brittany coasts

For over a decade the European Commission has funded programs aimed at examining the problems of algae production, utilization and green tides. COST and BRIDGE led to publication of two volumes surveying the situation, principally on the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts of Europe. Two presenters of this paper were members of the team and co-authors of the books. The volumes center on Europe and the presenters were principally concerned with the eutrophication and the bioconversion of seaweeds. Research has led to a series of proposals to alleviate the accumulation of stranded algae, mostly Ulva, and their disposal or, at least partial, utilization in agriculture, industry and even energy production. The paper reviews and summarizes their conclusions, several not yet published, putting the accent on the methanization, and draws a parallel with a prevailing situation in Southeastern Florida. Related topics include: Anaerobic digestion of Ulva, Bioconversion of algae, Composting of Ulva, Management of eutrophication, and the “seaweeds” programs of the European Commission.