Short Note. “Seaweed laundering” in Peru: Regulatory setbacks, gaps in traceability and socio-ecological impacts

Baltazar Guerrero P.M.; Avila-Peltroche J. · Journal of Applied Phycology (2026) · DOI: 10.1007/s10811-026-03903-y

Resumen

Seaweed resources are widely promoted as sustainable, yet this perception often diverges from practices in major harvesting regions. In Peru, a leading exporter of kelps (brown macroalgae) to China for their alginate industry, “seaweed laundering” refers to the mixing of illegally harvested kelp with legally sourced beach-cast material, which is then legitimized through certification. Recent journalistic investigations revealed the extent of this practice and exposed structural flaws in traceability and enforcement systems. By legitimizing illicit harvests with legal documentation for beach-cast biomass, current regulations enable ongoing ecological over-exploitation. These weaknesses are exacerbated by export-driven demand and limited regulatory oversight. In this opinion article, we outline actionable steps toward effective traceability and enforcement, arguing that only robust accountability can deliver true sustainability for Peru’s seaweed sector. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2026.

Instituciones: Universidad Científica del Sur