An Extensive Analysis, Patterns, and Worldwide Viewpoints on the Life Cycle Assessment of Seaweeds: A Bibliometric Study (2004–2024)

Research on seaweed has seen substantial growth in life cycle assessment (LCA) studies in recent decades. This bibliometric study analyzed the literature on the LCA of seaweed published between 2004 and 2024. It employed scientific mapping techniques and performance analysis to reveal trends, frameworks, and patterns in the LCA of seaweed. The study examined related topic clusters, leading authors, influential papers, countries of origin, and the impact of the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Additionally, it highlighted gaps in the current research. Data from relevant articles sourced from the Web of Science were analyzed using VOSviewer software to identify key themes and trends in the field. The findings show a significant expansion in LCA research on seaweed, particularly post-2010, with 62% of the articles published in the last five years. Prominent journals and institutions have played a pivotal role in the rapid development of this research area. Key topics include energy fuels, environmental science, ecology, engineering, and biotechnology. The LCA of seaweed research contributes significantly to SDGs 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and 13 (Climate Action).