An urchin ranching company and an environmental project developer are establishing a new business to tackle the ecological and climate challenges posed by urchin overpopulation
The new company Urchinomics Aotearoa, is being established by Urchinomics and EnviroStrat, will help protect kelp forest ecosystems throughout Aotearoa in New Zealand.
“Working with EnviroStrat enables us to scale our efforts and leverage their deep understanding of environmental sustainability and their relationships with iwi, stakeholders and the government in New Zealand,” said Perry Bevin, CEO of Urchinomics.
”Together, we aim to restore ecologically degraded kina barrens into thriving habitats, providing environmental benefits and economic opportunities for iwi and local communities.”
Kelp restoration
Urchinomics Aotearoa builds on a successful 18-month pilot led by EnviroStrat with investment from EnviroStrat, impact investors and the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund administered by the Ministry for Primary Industries.
The pilot tested technical viability, market demand and environmental impact opportunities through kelp restoration.
“EnviroStrat is excited to partner with Urchinomics in this revolutionary endeavour, following our successful collaboration through the pilot over the past 18 months,” added Dr Nigel Bradly, CEO of EnviroStrat.
”Our joint expertise supports our shared vision of restored and resilient ocean ecosystems. We are committed to this partnership as a model for ecological and economic regeneration.”
Urchinomics rehomes urchins into its sea or land based ranching facilities, where they are fed nutritionally balanced, plant-based natural (soy and corn-free) feed to grow their roe.
This announcement follows the recent appointments of Mawae Morton as non-executive chair and strategic advisor and Maru Samuels as in-country lead for Urchinomics Aotearoa.
Urchinomics is expected to kickstart New Zealand operations in the coming months, with several key locations already in consideration for initial restoration activities.
