How the humble seaweed is helping to tackle climate change

Scientists are constantly on the hunt for new solutions to help fight climate change, some of which are pretty unusual. Most recently, kelp – or seaweed – is taking climate action by storm. Some people call it a miracle plant.

What is kelp?

Kelp is a type of seaweed that grows along the coastline in forests of long ribbons. Similarly to bamboo, it grows at rapid rates: up to 60cm (2ft) per day – creating a luscious underwater oasis.

CO2 and kelp?

While carbon capture technology helps remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, turning to nature-based climate solutions offers just as much opportunity. Just like any other plant or tree, kelp absorbs carbon dioxide and produces oxygen. It actually plays a huge role in tackling climate change as it’s responsible for producing 70% of the Earth’s oxygen.

One of the coolest things about kelp is its carbon sequestration process. It absorbs carbon dioxide while it grows – up to 600 million tonnes every year, which is more than double the number of emissions produced by the UK each year. It transforms carbon dioxide into biomass through photosynthesis. Once the carbon dioxide is locked into the kelp, it sinks to the bottom of the ocean and can be stored underground or harvested for use.

Kelp farming?

And according to scientists at Harvard University, a kelp forest can absorb 20 times more carbon dioxide than the same area of land forest. These are crazy positive statistics!

In comparison to some land forests, kelp farms do not face threats of deforestation or wildfires. They don’t need pesticides, freshwater or fertiliser to grow either. It’s completely natural and doesn’t rely on external resources. Kelp forests don’t take away precious land for livestock or food production. And not to mention how long it takes trees to grow!

National Geographic reports that scientists are now calling for industrial-sized farms where kelp is grown to its maturity and then harvested and sunk deep into the ocean. However, research and development are still in their early days.

Kelp enhances ocean biodiversity

Kelp forests help maintain rich marine ecosystems and are home to all kinds of marine life such as fish, invertebrates, mammals and more. Fish find shelter in kelp, sea urchins eat it and various prey moves into the forest, drawing more predators. Its natural shape also protects eggs because it slows the movement of water and prevents them from drifting away. This creates a balanced and productive ecosystem which keeps the world turning.

Plus, it prevents erosion and retains nearshore sand from storm-driven tides. It also keeps waterways clean and fresh by absorbing excess nutrients from wastewater.

But like all of the ocean, kelp forests face many threats like unsustainable fishing, plastic waste, dredging and pollution.

Kelp is healthy for your body and mind 

Seaweed isn’t just good for the environment, it’s good for your body too. It is a staple in many Asian cuisines and due to its high protein, vitamins and nutrients like iodine, more and more people are starting to eat kelp. Research by the National Institutes of Health suggests eating seaweed supports thyroid health, metabolism, cognitive function and your nervous system and nourishes your skin. That’s why it’s starting to be used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, livestock feed and fertiliser.

Kelp is available in pretty much any form as food or a supplement. Healthline recommends consuming it alongside a broader, nutritious diet. Additionally, because of its high absorption qualities, kelp may also absorb heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium and lead. When buying kelp to consume, it’s best practice to look for certified organic versions that have been tested for arsenic.

Conclusion

All in all, kelp presents amazing opportunities for the planet. With more research and funding, kelp farms can play a pivotal role in combating climate change.