ABOUT BWSFA
Welcome to BWSFA!
We are a women-led, community-powered movement dedicated to transforming lives and protecting our oceans through sustainable seaweed farming in Belize. By creating eco-friendly livelihoods for coastal women, youth, and men, we strengthen our communities, safeguard marine ecosystems, and help shape the future of Belize’s Blue Economy.
The Value of Seaweed
Why Seaweed Matters
Seaweed is more than a superfood — it’s a force for positive change. From creating sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities to protecting ocean ecosystems and providing nutritious products for everyday life, seaweed supports people, the planet, and progress.
Sustainable Livelihoods
Empowering communities through fair opportunities
Ocean Health
Farming practices that protect marine ecosystems
Everyday Impact
Nutritious, versatile products for homes and businesses
Our Products
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Our Products
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What we do
Our Work
The Belize Women Seaweed Farmers Association (BWSFA) cultivates sustainable seaweed, primarily Kappaphycus alvarezii and Eucheumatopsis isiformis, to meet growing market demand while creating alternative livelihoods for women, men and youths.
BWSFA cultivates sustainable seaweed species while providing hands-on training for women and youth in responsible marine farming practices.
The association produces and markets eco-friendly seaweed products such as dried seaweed, gel, and powder, ensuring food safety and environmental standards.
BWSFA engages communities and schools through presentations, media, and social platforms to raise awareness about marine conservation and seaweed farming.
BWSFA promotes regenerative seaweed farming that enhances biodiversity, supports reef restoration, and provides nutrient-rich superfoods.
HOW IT WORKS
Seaweed Processing
The processing of seaweed at BWSFA is a careful, hands-on practice that reflects both tradition and sustainability. The process not only preserves the natural nutrients of the seaweed but also embodies the association’s commitment to environmentally responsible methods, resulting in a clean, reliable product ready for local use and international markets.
01
Harvest & Transport
Seaweed is carefully harvested and weighed before being placed into bags that are shaken to remove excess water. The bags are balanced securely within the vessel and transported to the processing site using rinsed wheelbarrows to ensure cleanliness.
02
Rinsing & Soaking
The harvested seaweed is thoroughly rinsed to remove sand and debris, then soaked overnight in clean, freshwater-filled drums. The soaking water is discarded the following morning, and the seaweed is given a final rinse in preparation for drying.
03
Drying Process
Clean seaweed is spread evenly across drying racks and turned regularly to ensure uniform drying. It is clipped into smaller pieces, covered overnight with a tarp, and then uncovered, clipped, and turned daily until completely dried.
04
Final Processing
Once fully dried, the seaweed is removed from the racks, bagged, weighed, and prepared for proper storage or distribution to buyers and partners.
BWSFA Projects
BWSFA implements projects that strengthen sustainable seaweed mariculture through capacity building, expanded production, value-added product development, and market access.
Our Seaweed Species
At the Belize Women’s Seaweed Farmers Association (BWSFA), we cultivate two remarkable red seaweed species — Kappaphycus alvarezii (Macho) and Eucheuma isiforme — both grown in the clear, nutrient-rich waters of southern Belize. These species not only thrive in our tropical seas but also play an essential role in restoring ocean health, supporting livelihoods, and building a sustainable seaweed industry rooted in community.
Eucheumatopsis
Isiformis
Kappaphycus
AlvareziiIs
AlvareziiIs
Our Impact
Testimonials
Hear from partners, supporters, and community members about the impact of BWSFA’s work.
We are very impressed with the BWSFA's commitment to empowering women through sustainable seaweed farming. The BWSFA serves as a strong example of how conservation efforts can significantly advance women's financial empowerment in Belize's blue economy.
Rhondine B. Petrof
Excellent trained tour guides with in-depth knowledge regarding seaweed. Commendable innovative niche tour!
Leonel Requena
99.9% Customer Satisfaction based on 750+ reviews & 200 Objective Resource
Our Impact
Testimonials
Hear from partners, supporters, and community members about the impact of BWSFA’s work.
We are very impressed with the BWSFA’s commitment to empowering women through sustainable seaweed farming. The BWSFA serves as a strong example of how conservation efforts can significantly advance women’s financial empowerment in Belize’s blue economy.
Rhondine B. Petrof
Founder & CEO, Toucan Education Programs
Excellent trained tour guides with in-depth knowledge regarding seaweed. Commendable innovative niche tour!
Leonel Requena
GEF SGP
Our Partners
RECENT NEWS
Our Blog
Explore stories, insights, and updates on seaweed farming, sustainability, and the work of BWSFA.
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