Zanzibar is an island off the coast of Tanzania. There they enjoy financial capacity due to its successful tourist industry, fishing, and seaweed production. However many of Zanzibar’s coastal communities still suffer from poverty and local industries which are affecting the environment. On the east coast of Zanzibar, the marine cultures organization is building sponge farms that provide a sustainable alternative to fishing and reducing pressure on natural resources in coastal waters. Their main aim is to solve the issues by sea sponge farming.
Sea Sponge and How Is It Grown Sustainably?
The sponges have a porous skeleton made of spongin, which is a type of collagen that is very soft and highly water-absorbent. Most sponges grow by latching onto coral heads, rocks, logs, or shells. Sea sponges are ‘filter-feed’ animals that do not need to be fed, it have no nerves, and cutting them did not cause any kind of pain. The process involves cutting up sponge fragments from large, healthy sponges into smaller bits and threading it onto underwater lines in sheltered lagoons. The sponge pieces can be harvested after two years. There are several techniques to harvest them. The farming process of sea sponges is chemical-free. After they grow to their full size the divers remove the seaweed and encrusting animals from the sponges by hand. then they will dry for a few hours in the air. After this process what remains is a sustainable sponge. which can be ready to sell.
Benefits of Sea Sponge Farming
Sea sponge farming offers a more economically sustainable than the traditional seaweed farming industry. This industry has been employing Zanzibari women. This industry is in decline state as seaweed is susceptible to pests and diseases. The market price of seaweed is low now and the farmers are rewarded with minimal income. Farming the sea sponges offers lower maintenance and higher returns. Unlike the others the seasponge farming consumes much less time which gives the farmers time and opportunity to put on other economic activities.
Uses of Sea Sponge
Seasponge has a diverse range of applications due to its natural properties in it. Sea sponges can be used in different sectors like
1. Personal care and Cosmetics
2. Health care and Medical use
3. Household and cleaning products
4. Artistic and Craft Applications
5. Industrial Applications
6. Sustainable Alternatives
Conclusion
Sea sponge farming in Zanzibar shows how sustainable practices can benefit in both the environment and local communities. Sea sponge farming represents a sustainable and beneficial approach to marine resource management. By supporting the environment, providing economic opportunities, empowering communities, and fostering innovation, it serves as a model for sustainable development.
