Smiley Movement logo

Seaweed forests are a bonus for the environment

Words by Abi Scaife

Seaweed forests are far more extensive than realised, new research has shown – and they're a great tool in preventing climate change.

Tell me more.

Kelp is one of the fastest-growing plants on the planet and is capable of absorbing carbon dioxide from seawater and the atmosphere.

A study in September 2022 discovered that seaweed forests are much, much larger than we first realised - making this planet even more vital to taking action on climate change.

Because seaweed isn't nearly as well researched as, say, coral reefs, many of these 'underwater forests' aren't even mapped, let alone utilised in the fight against climate change.

What good is seaweed anyway?

As it turns out, really good! Apart from the points mentioned above, it is also edible (and delicious), a really sustainable food source, and full of nutrients.

This also makes it a great alternative to foods like corn and soya beans when it comes to animal feed, as it’s still very nutritious, but much better for the planet.

Not only that, but it can even be used as an alternative to plastic. Who knew seaweed had so many different uses?

This article aligns with the UN SDG Climate Action.

This article aligns with the following UN SDGs

You might also like…