Biodiversity

Søulds eelgrass collection is evaluated through biodiversity analysis, documenting its impact on ecosystems, local species and the coastal environments where we operate.

BIODIVERSITY — Søuld’s acoustic panels are made from eelgrass collected along the Danish coastline. Eelgrass that is no longer living, washes ashore naturally, and is gathered by our farmers while still fresh.

The collection has several positive effects. When eelgrass decomposes ashore, nutrients stored in the plant are released and can wash back into the sea. Excess nutrients can contribute to harmful algal blooms, which may lead to oxygen depletion and make it difficult for marine plants, fish and other ocean life to thrive.

When eelgrass is removed before it begins to decompose, the amount of nutrients that would otherwise return to the sea is reduced. At the same time, the carbon absorbed by the plant during its growth is encapsulated within our acoustic panels. The panels therefore function as a carbon storage.

Our EPD documents that more carbon is stored in the product than how much CO₂ is emitted during the production phase (A1–A3).  Download and read the full EPD here.

To assess whether the collection of eelgrass has any negative impact on climate, biodiversity or the local environment, DHI has conducted a biodiversity analysis of Søuld’s activities.

The analysis shows that collection along the examined coastal stretches does not negatively affect the seabed or the natural distribution of eelgrass. No harmful effects on the ecological integrity of the areas, including birdlife and other species, have been identified.

By collecting eelgrass from the Danish coasts, biomass producing climate-damaging greenhouse gases such as CO₂ and methane is removed.
The collection of eelgrass is not a formal environmental mitigation measure. However, the effect is straightforward: when biomass is removed, the nutrients and carbon it contains are removed with it. This means that our work with eelgrass not only extends carbon storage in building materials — it also contributes to reducing nutrient pressure in the coastal areas where collection takes place.

This documentation is an important step in ensuring that our collection and use of eelgrass takes place with respect for climate, biodiversity and the coastal environments in which we operate.

Download and read the full Biodiversity report (Danish) here

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