Duckweed: Nature’s Green Helper (Part 1)

Published on February 6, 2025

How this fast-growing aquatic wonder is shaping sustainability

This is the first post in a series exploring the various aspects of duckweed, from its ecological significance to its practical applications in sustainability, food production, renewable energy, and beyond.

What is duckweed?

Duckweed, a tiny yet remarkable aquatic plant, is increasingly drawing attention for its environmental benefits and sustainable applications. Found in freshwater environments worldwide, duckweed thrives in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers, forming dense green mats that often resemble algae. However, unlike algae, duckweed is a free-floating vascular plant with small, leaf-like fronds and minimal root systems.

Despite its unassuming appearance, duckweed is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth [1], capable of doubling its biomass within 24 to 48 hours under ideal conditions. This rapid growth and its ability to absorb nutrients and pollutants make it a key player in aquatic ecosystems.

A natural water purifier

Duckweed’s ability to absorb excess nitrogen and phosphorus helps prevent harmful algal blooms – a major environmental issue that disrupts water ecosystems. By covering the water’s surface, it limits sunlight penetration, controlling unwanted algae growth while stabilising oxygen levels in aquatic habitats.

Additionally, duckweed has been recognised for its role in natural wastewater treatment. It removes contaminants such as heavy metals and bacteria, offering a low-cost, eco-friendly water purification solution.

Duckweed’s role in sustainable agriculture and energy

Beyond its ecological benefits, duckweed is gaining recognition for its potential in agriculture and renewable energy:

A high-protein feed source – With its rich protein and amino acid content, duckweed is an excellent feed alternative for livestock and aquaculture. It provides a nutritious and sustainable protein source while requiring fewer resources than conventional animal feed.

A novel food for humans – Certain duckweed species have been consumed for centuries in different cultures. Recently, the European Union classified specific types of duckweed as novel food sources [2], highlighting their potential for future food security.

A renewable biofuel source [3, 4, 5] – Due to its high starch content, researchers are investigating duckweed’s viability as a biofuel feedstock, offering a promising alternative to fossil fuels.

Looking ahead: The future of duckweed

As research and innovation continue to uncover new uses for duckweed, this tiny plant is proving to be a powerful ally in environmental conservation and sustainable development. Whether cleaning water, providing alternative protein sources, or advancing renewable energy, duckweed holds enormous potential for a greener future.

Stay tuned for our next installment, where we’ll take a closer look at duckweed’s ecological applications – from improving water quality to supporting biodiversity and promoting sustainability in aquatic ecosystems.