GreenWave

GreenWave is a nonprofit organization focused on regenerative ocean farming as a climate and community solution. It promotes scalable, multi-species farming systems that use vertical, three-dimensional structures to cultivate sea vegetables and shellfish, with the aim of restoring coastal ecosystems, creating local jobs, and building resilient food systems.

Founded in 2017 by Bren Smith, a former commercial fisherman, GreenWave is headquartered in the United States. The organization develops and advocates for the 3D Ocean Farming model, which layers kelp or other seaweeds with filter-feeding shellfish such as oysters and mussels on vertical lines and longlines. The design seeks to maximize production in a given area while minimizing habitat disruption. Kelp provides biomass and potential carbon sequestration, while shellfish improve water quality through filtration, contributing to healthier coastal environments.

GreenWave supports practitioners through education and technical assistance. Its programs include a free design guide and training curriculum, on-site workshops, and help with permitting, markets, and financing. The organization also builds networks of farmers, universities, extension services, and funders to scale pilots into broader programs and to encourage supportive policy and investment in regenerative aquaculture.

Impact and reception of GreenWave focus on advancing practical, scalable ocean farming as a climate-positive industry. The organization has supported pilot projects along various U.S. coastlines, influenced academic and policy discussions, and contributed to a broader effort to reimagine aquaculture as a restorative part of coastal economies.