Presentation Topic
Innovative Circular Processing of Red Seaweed for Carrageenan Production and Valorization of Residual Proteins
Biography
Karla Calderón is a Peruvian Marine Biologist with a Master’s degree in Marine Ecology and serves as General Manager of Pakucha, the company presenting this proposal. She leads research and development initiatives focused on marine resource valorization, sustainable processing technologies, and innovation in seaweed-based products.
Her work specializes in the technological optimization of red macroalgae processing, particularly carrageenan extraction and integrated biomass utilization. She develops and evaluates process strategies to improve extraction efficiency, standardize quality parameters, and reduce environmental impact across the production chain. Her research includes alkaline extraction optimization, hydrocolloid quality assessment, and the recovery of residual proteins under a biorefinery framework.
Her professional approach integrates low-carbon processing, circular bioeconomy principles, and resource efficiency, promoting the transformation of seaweed residues into value-added functional ingredients to strengthen sustainable food supply chains.
In parallel, she is currently associated with the Humboldt II Project, a binational initiative between Peru and Chile implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where she contributes to sustainable fisheries management, value chain strengthening, and the incorporation of scientific and environmental criteria into coastal productive systems.
Her experience bridges applied marine science, food technology, and climate-resilient production models, working closely with artisanal fisheries and coastal stakeholders to promote responsible marine resource use and scalable low-carbon solutions in the Pacific region.
