Seaflora Is The Face of Sustainability on Vancouver Island
British Columbia’s seaweed industry is rapidly expanding, with tremendous potential to generate diverse economic, social, and environmental benefits for coastal communities. At this pivotal point in the industry’s growth, we have a unique chance to pioneer sustainable, ocean-positive practices for seaweed cultivation. By doing so, we can set a global standard, enhance ocean health, and create long-lasting, sustainable livelihoods.
Seaflora is at the forefront of this movement as the face of sustainability on Vancouver Island. For decades, we have not only championed but implemented eco-friendly practices modeled after the extinct sea cow’s ecological role, a species that once played a vital part in marine health by grazing kelp and keeping ecosystems in balance.
While the seaweed industry advances, natural kelp forests are increasingly under threat from climate change, ecosystem disruptions, and pollution. Protecting, restoring, and monitoring kelp forests are essential actions we must accelerate to reverse the decline of these critical ecosystems.
In support of this mission, Seaflora is thrilled to announce our participation in the upcoming International Seaweed Symposium. We’ll be hosting a booth with samples for all attendees, sharing our knowledge, and collaborating with others committed to sustainable ocean practices. For those interested in seeing our sustainable operations up close, don’t miss the Seaflora manufacturing facility tour on May 7th at 3 pm, located at 2105 Otter Point Rd. in Sooke, B.C.
Key Conversations from the Ocean Wise Kelp Summit
Recently, Ocean Wise and the Pacific Seaweed Industry Association hosted the inaugural Kelp Summit at Ocean Wise headquarters in Vancouver, where 50 experts, including First Nations leaders, industry representatives, environmental groups, researchers, and policymakers, gathered to discuss critical topics:
- Respecting Indigenous Rights, Title, and Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Kelp Restoration
- Setting a Global Example for Ocean-Positive Practices in B.C.’s Seaweed Industry
- Collaborating Across Sectors for a Healthier Ocean
The summit’s energy was inspiring, with attendees eager to collaborate toward real solutions. Five key takeaways from this event resonate strongly with Seaflora’s approach:
1. Wise Practices Over Best Practices
Sustainable kelp management isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution. Effective approaches are context-specific and informed by local ecological and cultural knowledge, particularly from Indigenous Nations who bring unique insights into natural resource stewardship.
2. Prioritizing Indigenous Rights and Traditional Knowledge
The importance of self-determination for First Nations was a recurring theme. Indigenous communities need the authority to make decisions and manage resources in alignment with their values, calling for genuine partnerships and shared leadership rather than mere consultation.
3. Creating a Shared Language and Monitoring Standards
To truly understand the ecological impact of seaweed farming and restoration, it’s essential to establish a unified approach to monitoring and reporting. Tools and metrics are crucial for all stakeholders to consistently assess and support the health of kelp farms.
4. Acting with Caution and Urgency
Balancing urgent action with thoughtful planning is vital. While we aim to address the critical threats facing kelp forests, careful steps are essential to avoid unintended consequences.
5. Building a Market that Benefits Coastal Communities
For the seaweed industry to thrive, it must be sustainable, ethical, and ocean-positive—and also beneficial to local communities.
Seaflora is committed to building a market that educates and empowers these communities, aligning with our dedication to sustainability. We look forward to advancing these conversations and driving positive change as we gear up for the International Seaweed Symposium 2025. Join us as we continue our commitment to sustainable seaweed practices and ocean health.
Seaflora: Pioneering Ultra-Local, Sustainable Seaweed Skincare
At Seaflora, we’ve redefined what it means to be a local, sustainable skincare company:
- Ocean-to-Bottle Production: We hand-harvest 9 species of seaweed, sea mud, and sea salt right on our doorstep. These potent marine ingredients form the foundation of our products, ensuring unparalleled freshness and potency.
- Hyper-Local Sourcing: Beyond our marine ingredients which includes 9 species of seaweed, sea mud and sea salts, we source locally wherever possible. Our colloidal clay is from Vancouver Island, malic acid from BC radishes and apples, and most oils are produced in-house, minimizing transportation and supporting our local economy.
- Ultra-Low Carbon Footprint: Our manufacturing facility is just steps away from our harvesting sites, dramatically reducing transportation emissions. Majority of harvesting is done on foot with scissors in the intertidal zone. This proximity allows us to maintain the highest quality standards while minimizing our environmental impact.
- Zero-Waste Facility: Our commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of our operations. We run a zero-waste program at our manufacturing facility, ensuring that nothing goes to landfill.
- Energy-Efficient Design: Our facility features solar panels, south-facing windows for natural light and heat, and in-floor water heating, maximizing energy efficiency and reducing our reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
- Community-Centric Workforce: With a small team of 4 full-time and 3 part-time staff, all living within an hour’s walk or 10-minute drive, we’re truly embedded in our local community. This not only reduces commuting emissions but also strengthens our connection to the area we serve.
At Seaflora, we’re not just creating skincare products; we’re nurturing a sustainable ecosystem that benefits our customers, our community, and our planet. Experience the difference that truly local, environmentally conscious skincare can make for your skin and the world around us.
Seaflora’s Commitment to Indigenous Wisdom and Sustainable Innovation
At Seaflora, our approach to skincare is deeply rooted in respect for First Nations knowledge and stewardship of coastal resources. This commitment goes beyond mere consultation:
- Ethical Harvesting Practices: Before harvesting any seaweed, we first seek approval from the local First Nations, acknowledging their traditional rights and ensuring sustainable practices.
- Learning from Traditional Knowledge: Our product development is significantly influenced by First Nations wisdom. A prime example of this is our Natural Sun Shield Facial Moisturizer, which originated from Indigenous insights.
- Innovative Research Inspired by Tradition: Chantelle Line, inspired by First Nations teachings, delved into researching Mycosporine-like Amino Acids (MAAs). This research led to the development of our groundbreaking Natural Sun Shield Facial Moisturizer.
- Natural Photoprotection: MAAs, found in various marine organisms, offer natural protection against UV radiation. By incorporating these compounds into our products, we’re harnessing nature’s own defense mechanisms.
- Sustainable Sun Protection: Unlike synthetic UV filters that can harm marine ecosystems, our MAA-based sun protection is environmentally friendly and skin-safe.
- Bridging Traditional Wisdom and Modern Science: This collaboration exemplifies how traditional ecological knowledge can guide scientific research, resulting in innovative, effective, and sustainable skincare solutions.
By combining First Nations’ time-honoured understanding of coastal ecosystems with cutting-edge research, Seaflora is pioneering a new approach to skincare – one that respects both tradition and innovation, while prioritizing environmental sustainability.
