Algae farming generally uses significantly less water than traditional agriculture because algae can grow in shallow water systems that recycle the same water over extended periods. Unlike crops that require constant irrigation and often lose water through soil absorption and evaporation, algae systems can be designed to minimize water loss through closed-loop setups or covered ponds. Algae can also thrive in brackish or wastewater, reducing the need for fresh water altogether.
Traditional agriculture often requires vast amounts of clean water for irrigation, particularly in arid regions, whereas algae farming offers a more water-efficient alternative by using non-arable land and unconventional water sources. By growing rapidly and requiring only a thin layer of water, algae farming achieves high productivity with relatively low water inputs.
