Day 59: Kelp Forests

Today you will learn about kelp forests, why it may or may not help solve climate change, how it works and what needs to still be done for it to be an effective solution to climate change.

Summary

Explain succinctly what kelp forests are from first principles.

Kelp forests are underwater ecosystems dominated by large, brown algae known as kelp. These forests typically grow along coastlines in cold, nutrient-rich waters. Kelp is anchored to the seafloor and can grow to impressive heights, forming dense underwater "forests" that provide a unique habitat for various marine species.

Why does kelp forests help to solve climate change?

Kelp forests can help mitigate climate change in several ways:

• Carbon Sequestration: Kelp is a fast-growing plant that captures carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and stores it in its tissues. When kelp dies and sinks to the ocean floor, this carbon is effectively removed from the atmosphere, acting as a "blue carbon" sink.
• Ocean Acidification Mitigation: Kelp takes up CO2 during photosynthesis, which can help reduce CO2 levels in seawater. This can combat ocean acidification, a consequence of excess CO2 absorption by the oceans, which harms marine life.
• Biodiversity Support: Kelp forests provide habitat and food for a wide variety of marine species. By preserving these ecosystems, we protect biodiversity, which can be disrupted by climate change.

Steel man the other side. Why would kelp forests NOT work to solve climate change?

While kelp forests offer significant benefits, there are limitations and challenges:

• Limited Geographic Range: Kelp forests thrive in cold, nutrient-rich waters. They are not suitable for tropical or warm waters, limiting their global applicability.
• Vulnerability to Climate Change: Kelp forests are themselves vulnerable to climate change, including rising ocean temperatures and extreme weather events. These stressors can lead to kelp declines.
• Economic and Technological Challenges: Scaling up kelp cultivation and restoration efforts for meaningful climate mitigation can be economically and logistically challenging. It requires investment in infrastructure and technology.

Who benefits most by implementing kelp forests as a solution?

The primary beneficiaries of implementing kelp forests as a climate solution are:

• Climate: The reduction of atmospheric CO2 levels and mitigation of climate change impacts benefit the global climate system.
• Marine Ecosystems: Kelp forests support diverse marine life, including fish, invertebrates, and other algae. Restoring and preserving kelp ecosystems benefits these species and the broader marine food web.
• Coastal Communities: Kelp forests contribute to fisheries, which can support the livelihoods and food security of coastal communities.

Who is harmed most by implementing kelp forests as a solution?

The harm associated with implementing kelp forests as a climate solution is relatively limited. However, it's essential to consider potential conflicts with other ocean uses, such as shipping, aquaculture, or recreational activities, as well as ensuring that kelp restoration efforts are ecologically sustainable.

How feasible is kelp forests to implement as a solution?

The feasibility of implementing kelp forests as a climate solution depends on various factors, including geographic location, technology, and investment. In areas with suitable conditions, such as cold, nutrient-rich waters, and supportive policies, kelp restoration and cultivation can be feasible. However, it requires a concerted effort, research, and investment to scale up these activities to achieve significant climate benefits.

How does kelp forests work as a solution to climate change?

• Kelp Growth: Kelp forests are established or restored through the cultivation of kelp species in suitable coastal areas. These kelps grow rapidly through photosynthesis, absorbing CO2 from seawater.
• Carbon Sequestration: As kelp grows, it accumulates carbon in its tissues. When kelp fronds die and sink to the ocean floor, this carbon is buried in underwater sediments, effectively sequestering it from the atmosphere.
• Biodiversity Protection: Kelp forests provide habitat and refuge for various marine species. By maintaining and restoring kelp ecosystems, we protect marine biodiversity, which can be disrupted by climate change.
• Economic Opportunities: Kelp cultivation can offer economic benefits through the harvest of kelp for food, biofuels, and other products. Revenue generated from these activities can support further kelp restoration efforts.

What is a real-life example of the solution of kelp forests being implemented?

One real-life example is the work of the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management at the University of California, Santa Barbara. They have conducted research and pilot projects to explore the potential of kelp farming for carbon sequestration along the California coast.

For kelp forests as a solution to work, what innovation or policy needs to be created?

To make kelp forests a more effective climate solution, several innovations and policies are needed:

• Technological Innovation: Improved methods for kelp cultivation and harvesting, as well as efficient ways to process kelp for various uses (e.g., biofuels or food).
• Sustainable Practices: Policies and regulations to ensure sustainable kelp farming and harvesting without harming local ecosystems.
• Investment: Financial incentives and investment in kelp restoration projects and research to scale up their impact.
  
  

Additional Resources

• Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

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Top Skills To Learn

The following skills are recommend to learn:

• Marine Biology: Understanding the biology and ecology of kelp and the marine ecosystems they inhabit is essential.
• Environmental Policy and Advocacy: Knowledge of environmental policy and advocacy skills can help students navigate the regulatory landscape and advocate for supportive policies.
• Oceanography and Climate Science: A strong foundation in oceanography and climate science will help students comprehend the broader context of how kelp forests interact with the climate system and the oceans.

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Activity

Activity: Carbon Storage Calculation

Description: Calculate the potential carbon storage capacity of a hypothetical kelp forest in your area. Research average growth rates and carbon sequestration potential.

Skill Lesson Mastered

Demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills presented in this lesson by applying it to the above activity. If, and only if, you have a full understanding and have mastered the knowledge and skills presented in this lesson, select the next lesson in the navigation.