Canadian Cosmetic Cluster Team
Uniting Canadian Cosmetics and Bringing it to the World
Immersive Learning and Real Connections - Reflections on the EIT Regenerative Aquaculture Course3/11/2024  Photo Credit - SAMS This October, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit SAMS (Scottish Association for Marine Science) in Scotland as part of the EIT Regenerative aquaculture course. It was an incredible experience where I learned about aquaculture, which is central to our Beauty by the Sea initiative. Understanding where our ingredients come from and the methods behind sustainable farming was invaluable. The course went beyond seaweed, shellfish, and fish; it covered the broader scope of aquaculture, an industry rich in innovation and sustainability. The program featured cutting-edge knowledge, advanced innovations, and insights from various experts. We had hands-on experiences, such as visiting farms, nurseries, and witnessing the latest industry advancements. SAMS is one of the world’s premier institutes in marine sciences, making this a rare and valuable learning opportunity. The course, offered by EIT as a European partnership, brought together members from Poland, the UK, Scotland, and other parts of Europe, adding a diverse perspective to our learning experience. Uniquely, this program also emphasized entrepreneurship. The business component provided crucial insights into building a sustainable venture in agriculture, making it ideal for startups and those looking to develop a comprehensive understanding of the regenerative agriculture supply chain. I highly recommend this program to anyone interested in entering or advancing within this field. It spans about a month, including live lectures in the UK time zone—so be prepared for early mornings if you're joining from different time zones! The experience, however, is immersive and deeply engaging. The knowledge shared by the speakers, combined with the camaraderie among participants, creates an impactful and even life-changing experience. EIT offers various courses in sustainable food and agriculture; though primarily food-focused, they hold immense relevance for those in cosmetics, materials, and other related industries. This course in particular gave me a fresh perspective on the food industry, which deepened my understanding of supply chains from a cosmetic viewpoint. Stay tuned for more about the speakers, the EIT program, and all related links below. I’d especially recommend keeping an eye out for future courses, such as those on microalgae, which provide valuable insights for anyone passionate about sustainable and regenerative practices in food, agriculture, and beyond.  During my visit to Oban—a town steeped in history and rich in coastal tradition—added a unique dimension to my study of aquaculture at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS). Known as the "Gateway to the Isles," Oban’s roots as a bustling fishing port have long made it a central point of connection for Scotland's western coast. Surrounded by rugged landscapes and ancient castles, the town embodies a deep relationship with the sea, which is reflected in its strong maritime heritage. This historic background provides a fascinating context for the innovative research in aquaculture happening at SAMS today. Oban's longstanding ties to fishing and seafaring have laid the groundwork for the town's role as a leader in marine science and sustainable aquaculture. SAMS, located here in the heart of Oban, carries forward the town’s maritime legacy by applying scientific rigor and modern technology to tackle today’s aquaculture challenges. From its state-of-the-art labs to experimental seaweed farms, SAMS merges Oban’s historical seafaring knowledge with cutting-edge research. This blend of past and present creates a unique environment for studying the principles of aquaculture, particularly as they relate to sustainable practices rooted in respect for the sea. Experiencing aquaculture research in Oban is more than a scientific endeavor; it’s an immersion into a culture that has always valued its waters as a source of sustenance and trade. The town’s long history in the fishing industry resonates through SAMS’ mission to support responsible marine practices. Working alongside researchers and industry experts at SAMS, I observed how the institution builds on Oban’s heritage to address the challenges of modern aquaculture. This commitment to blending tradition with innovation allows SAMS to produce research and solutions that are both scientifically advanced and ecologically mindful. Studying aquaculture in a place as historically rich as Oban has given me a deeper understanding of the role that tradition plays in shaping sustainable marine practices. This experience has not only contributed to my academic development but has also instilled in me a sense of continuity—connecting the past with the present and guiding the future of aquaculture in a way that respects the legacy of towns like Oban.  Meet the Inspiring Team Behind the Seaweed Academy ProgramThe Seaweed Academy at SAMS, in partnership with the University of Cambridge and the Polish Academy of Science, leads this groundbreaking course. As the UK’s only dedicated seaweed industry facility, the Academy offers a comprehensive program of training, education, and business development—a true one-stop shop for anyone looking to grow in the seaweed aquaculture field. Learning from these brilliant minds brought an immense sense of joy and fulfillment, with every moment filled with insights, inspiration, and camaraderie. Here’s a look at the exceptional individuals who made this experience truly unforgettable: Dr. Matthew Davey Scottish Association for Marine Science Dr. Davey is an algal physiologist whose research spans diverse ecosystems, from Antarctica to controlled environments. His work explores metabolic diversity and its potential for innovative applications in bioenergy, space, and high-value natural products. Learning from him was a privilege, as he brought deep insight into the untapped potential of algae. Dr. Francisca Vermeulen Scottish Association for Marine Science An algal cultivation specialist and biotechnologist, Dr. Vermeulen has scaled algae cultivation for nutraceuticals, feed, and food. Her current focus on strategies to mitigate harmful algal blooms impacting aquaculture was both enlightening and inspiring, showcasing her commitment to sustainable solutions. Dr. Lindsay Vare Scottish Association for Marine Science With over a decade of experience in managing international, multi-disciplinary projects, Dr. Vare has been instrumental in leading seaweed-focused aquaculture projects. Her expertise and dedication were evident, making her an invaluable part of this experience. Jenny Black Scottish Association for Marine Science Jenny heads the Restorative Aquaculture and Blue Carbon projects at SAMS, coordinating mariculture training through the Seaweed Academy. Her hands-on experience in seaweed, seagrass, and shellfish cultivation made her contributions both practical and insightful. Dr. Daniel Żarski Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences Specializing in freshwater aquaculture, Dr. Żarski’s research in fish reproduction and hatchery technologies is crucial to the development of sustainable aquaculture practices. His commercial experience across Europe added a valuable real-world perspective to the program. Learning from this talented team was an absolute joy, and their expertise added tremendous value to the course. Their dedication and passion for advancing the seaweed industry left a lasting impression, making this a truly unforgettable experience for anyone passionate about regenerative aquaculture.    INSPIRE Restorative Aquaculture Programme Overview The INSPIRE Programme aims to immerse participants in the dynamic world of aquaculture, offering insights into European production practices, global opportunities, and current challenges in the industry. This programme is designed to attract talented recruits and aspiring entrepreneurs, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to create innovative solutions that tackle the sector’s production challenges. Participants will engage in academic lectures, hear from industry leaders, participate in site visits, and enjoy networking opportunities to build meaningful industry connections. The INSPIRE Restorative Aquaculture Course specifically focuses on empowering participants to develop solutions that drive the productivity and profitability of the aquaculture sector. Through this course, participants will receive:
This programme is led by The Seaweed Academy at SAMS, UK, in partnership with the Polish Academy of Science. The Seaweed Academy is the UK’s only dedicated seaweed industry hub, offering a full suite of training, education, and business development resources. The course takes place both online and in-person at SAMS in Oban, the seafood capital of Scotland’s West Coast Highlands. Course Advantages This intensive 3-week INSPIRE course on sustainable aquaculture will offer:
Programme Vision The INSPIRE programme is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to food security and aquaculture within the European context. By examining the key barriers and facilitators influencing food and aquaculture production, participants will gain a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in the sector. Training will focus on culturing methods, including techniques in algal biotechnology and the cultivation of both micro- and macroalgae. Additionally, the programme will highlight governance and societal factors in aquaculture and marine management, fostering a holistic perspective on the industry’s impact and future potential. Learning Objectives Participants will develop an understanding of core aquaculture practices, including seaweed farming, finfish and shellfish cultivation, and algal biotechnology, with an emphasis on the benefits these practices bring to rural communities. They will also learn to assess the short- and long-term consequences of decisions within the food system, fostering a strategic approach to problem-solving. The course is structured to help participants turn innovative ideas into actionable business solutions for the food sector and broader Blue Economy. In doing so, they will be encouraged to think beyond conventional boundaries, exploring creative solutions that address present and future challenges in the food industry. Learning Outcomes Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the aquaculture sector, encompassing both operational practices and cutting-edge biotechnology. They will be equipped to evaluate the impacts of various food system decisions, considering the broader implications for the industry. With their newfound knowledge, participants will be ready to apply innovative ideas to create viable business solutions that meet the needs of the food sector. Finally, they will develop the skills to systematically generate new ideas and effectively pitch these innovations, ready to tackle the evolving demands of the food system. I want to give a shout-out to my group— Paul Reisberg, Ambrosio Joseph Pagaran and Rúben Filipe Nascimento Marques. You all were amazing, and I truly enjoyed working together on our projects. It was such a fulfilling experience, and I’m definitely looking forward to future opportunities to collaborate with each of you. This course really highlighted the power of bringing together people with different skills but a shared goal. If you’re looking to build a strong, well-rounded team, this is the kind of program that makes it possible. During the course, we worked on a project called Secord—a polysaccharide algae blend designed for twine and rope in the agricultural and marine sectors. It was an incredible project, and I’m grateful to have been part of such a fantastic group. The entire course experience was invaluable to me. One of my biggest takeaways is this: if you want to enter an industry, immerse yourself fully. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. You need to get out there, talk to people, and learn from hands-on experience. Today, especially, it’s essential to step away from the computer and actively engage with the field. Go to the seas, visit the farms, connect with professionals, and genuinely build relationships. Real connections take time and often require in-person interactions. Whether you’re interested in agriculture or any other industry, this is a vital lesson—true understanding and relationships come from real-world experience.
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