Sydney
Australian researchers are calling for immediate efforts to conserve and restore kelp forests worldwide. A report titled State of the World’s Kelp, released by scientists from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney on Thursday, reveals that only 16% of the global kelp biome is currently protected, and a mere 2% of restoration targets have been met.
Aaron Eger, a marine ecologist and lead author of the report, launched the Kelp Forest Challenge in 2023, aiming to protect and restore 40% of kelp forests by 2040. Kelp forests, which consist of algae and seaweed, are vital ecosystems along coastlines, supporting marine species and fisheries while playing a key role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Their global annual economic value is estimated to exceed 500 billion Australian dollars (approximately 328.7 billion U.S. dollars).
However, these vital forests are declining at an alarming average rate of 1.8% per year, primarily due to climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Eger emphasized the importance of connecting the public, governments, and environmental agencies to these often-overlooked marine ecosystems.
While he believes that with strong action, it is possible to reach 30% protection of kelp forests by 2030, he noted that achieving the same restoration milestone within that timeframe is highly unlikely. Recognizing the neglect of kelp, Eger set the 2040 goal to create a more realistic and achievable target for restoration efforts.
