GRANGEMOUTH, Scotland – April 23, 2025 – In a bold stride toward Scotland’s green economy ambitions, biotech innovator MiAlgae has officially submitted plans for a large-scale microalgae production facility in Grangemouth. The facility, which repurposes whisky industry byproducts to grow omega-3-rich algae, is expected to create more than 100 green jobs in its first phase.
The project puts MiAlgae at the heart of Scotland’s clean tech transformation, particularly as the region looks to retrain and re-employ workers from declining oil and gas sectors.
Whisky Waste Fuels a Greener Future
MiAlgae’s unique value proposition lies in its closed-loop biotechnology model. By using byproducts from nearby whisky distilleries to feed microalgae cultures, the company produces sustainable, fish-free omega-3 oils—a critical nutrient in global aquaculture, pet food, and nutraceutical markets.
The planned Grangemouth facility is strategically located near whisky producers and major customer bases across the Central Belt, allowing MiAlgae to streamline logistics and scale production responsibly.
“Grangemouth has incredible potential for us,” said Douglas Martin, MiAlgae’s founder and CEO. “This location supports our scale-up and helps meet the growing demand for ‘biotech for good’ while creating high-quality, sustainable jobs.”
From Oil to Algae: Retraining for Green Jobs
More than just a business expansion, MiAlgae’s plans align with Scotland’s wider just transition strategy, aiming to retrain oil and gas workers for green-sector roles. The new facility will offer jobs across engineering, production, and research & development—sectors poised to benefit from sustainable economic growth.
The development also supports Project Willow, a regional initiative designed to attract clean technologies to Grangemouth and help rebrand the area as a green innovation hub.
“We’re proud to contribute to Grangemouth’s evolution,” Martin said. “This community has a rich industrial heritage, and we’re excited to be part of its green future.”
Global Demand, Local Solution
MiAlgae’s omega-3 products are already in demand across:
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Aquaculture – fish farms need sustainable feed ingredients
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Pet food – plant-based and eco-conscious pet diets are on the rise
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Nutraceuticals – human supplements focused on health and sustainability
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Meat alternatives and livestock feed – industries exploring animal-free omega-3 sources
The company’s modular approach to facility development means the Grangemouth site is just the beginning. Plans are already being developed for similar facilities abroad, located near feedstock sources.
Urgency and Contingency
MiAlgae is pushing for fast-tracked approval of the Grangemouth facility. However, alternative sites are being assessed as backup options. The company emphasizes that timing is critical to meet market demand and maximize impact.
Scottish Government Collaboration Expected
The biotech firm is working closely with local stakeholders and is optimistic about engaging with Scottish Government agencies to secure support for green manufacturing and sustainable biotechnology.
Martin stressed MiAlgae’s readiness:
“We’re proven at scale, the market is ready, and we’re delivering biotechnology that works. We’re eager to turn this vision into reality with the help of regional and national partners.”
A Circular Economy in Action
MiAlgae’s approach is a case study in circular economy thinking—where waste becomes a resource, environmental impact is minimized, and economic value is maximized. By converting distillery waste into omega-3 oil, the company avoids both overfishing and unnecessary landfill.
This project represents more than just a local business success. It’s a marker of how Scotland’s industrial towns can reinvent themselves with climate-friendly innovation and future-proof careers.
