Applied phycology refers to the study of algae and how it can be used in real world settings, for example as an energy or fuel source.
Western Australia is home to the world’s largest microalgae production plant on Hutt Lagoon, an iconic pink lake in the Coral Coast region.
The production plant farms Dunaliella salina – a kind of green algae used in cosmetics and dietary supplements.
ISAP is held once every three years and was last hosted in Australia in 2014, in Sydney.
The congress in Perth is expected to attract 700 delegates and inject $5.8 million of delegate expenditure into the Western Australian economy.
“This conference will bring together some of the brightest minds and passionate professionals from around the globe to Perth’s shores,” said Treena Burgess, executive director of the Harry Butler Institute at Murdoch University, which has a specialist research area centred on microalgae and macroalgae as well as the commercial production of algae for biofuels.
“It is a platform for sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas and forming collaborations [that] will shape the future of applied phycology.
“Perth, our city, embodies the dynamic and progressive nature that the Harry Butler Institute and the ISAP conference aim to foster – a place where ideas flourish, connections thrive and breakthroughs happen,” Burgess said.
The bid to host the event was supported by the Business Events Bid Fund, managed by Tourism Australia.
“This strategic win exemplifies our commitment to fostering growth and innovation across key priority sectors outlined in the State Government of Western Australia’s DiversifyWA framework, particularly in primary industries,” said Business Events Perth’s CEO Gareth Martin.
“The influx of delegates and associated expenditure will not only stimulate our local economy but also showcase Western Australia’s expertise and capabilities on the global stage.”
