The floating mats of sargassum seen along Cayman’s shores may soon play a role in Camana Bay’s commitment to sustainability.
Currently being cleared from the Camana Bay Harbour as part of routine maintenance, the sargassum collected is not going to waste. According to Whit Connors, Dart’s director of horticulture, the organic material will eventually be repurposed as a soil amendment in the Town Centre’s landscaping efforts.
“It isn’t reused right now, but in the future, we can use it mixed in with our soil,” Connors said. “Sargassum, rich in nutrients like iron, magnesium, potassium and calcium, offers powerful benefits for Caribbean gardening by enhancing plant nutrient uptake rather than simply adding more fertiliser to the soil.”
This natural alternative to synthetic fertilisers not only promotes stronger plant growth and higher yields but also supports broader goals like food security and economic sustainability.
While the reuse isn’t immediate, Connors confirmed that the sargassum currently being collected will be incorporated into soil mixtures moving forward.
As the Town Centre continues to explore eco-conscious solutions across its operations, this initiative reflects a broader trend of turning natural challenges — like seasonal sargassum blooms — into environmental opportunities.