Seaweed Sequestration: Unlocking the Power of the Ocean to Store Carbon

Climate News & Innovations
3 min read
Location of the sampled seaweed farms, the time (years) elapsed since the onset of farming and the size of the harvested area (ha). Credit: Nature Climate Change (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41558-024-02238-1

When it comes to carbon sequestration, forests are often the first thing that comes to mind. But what if the ocean could be an even more powerful carbon sink?

A new study published in Nature Climate Change has revealed that seaweed farms can store up to 140 metric tons of carbon per hectare, making them one of the most effective natural solutions for reducing atmospheric CO₂. This discovery has the potential to reshape how we think about blue carbon and the role of marine ecosystems in climate action.

At Terry, we believe in funding nature-based solutions that restore ecosystems and combat climate change. That’s why we support marine restoration projects that protect the ocean and its ability to absorb carbon, like those led by the Kelp Forest Alliance.

What is Blue Carbon?

“Blue carbon” refers to the carbon stored by marine and coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, and seaweed farms. These ecosystems play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, preventing it from re-entering the atmosphere.

The new research shows that older seaweed farms are particularly effective, as their sediments accumulate more carbon over time. This means that scaling up responsible seaweed farming could be a powerful tool for long-term carbon sequestration.

The Role of Seaweed in Climate Action

🌊 Absorbing Carbon Naturally – Seaweed absorbs CO₂ as it grows, making it a highly efficient carbon sink.

🐠 Restoring Ocean Ecosystems – Seaweed farms provide habitats for marine life, boosting biodiversity.

🔄 Reducing Ocean Acidification – By absorbing CO₂, seaweed helps maintain healthy pH levels in the ocean.

🌱 Creating Sustainable Alternatives – Seaweed can be used for biodegradable packaging, plant-based foods, and fertilizers.

The Challenges of Scaling Seaweed Farming

While the potential of seaweed sequestration is promising, researchers emphasize that large-scale seaweed farming must be done responsibly. Some challenges include:

⚠️ Ensuring Permanent Carbon Storage – Further studies are needed to confirm how long carbon remains stored in the ocean floor.

⚠️ Balancing Ecosystem Health – Expanding seaweed farms must be done in a way that protects marine biodiversity.

Despite these challenges, the science is clear—seaweed farming can be a powerful nature-based climate solution when implemented correctly.

Terry’s Commitment to Ocean Restoration

At Terry, we believe in supporting projects that restore marine ecosystems and enhance the ocean’s ability to fight climate change.

That’s why we partner with initiatives like the Kelp Forest Alliance, which restores kelp forests—another powerful blue carbon sink. By choosing to shop through Terry, you’re helping fund ocean restoration projects that make a tangible impact—all at no extra cost to you.

How You Can Help

✅ Shop through Terry – Your purchases support climate-positive projects like ocean restoration.

✅ Choose Seaweed-Based Products – Opt for sustainable products made from seaweed to support regenerative ocean farming.

✅ Spread the Word – Raising awareness about blue carbon solutions is key to increasing support for ocean-based climate action.

Final Thought

Seaweed farming is emerging as a game-changing climate solution, proving that nature itself holds the key to carbon sequestration. With more investment, research, and responsible scaling, blue carbon ecosystems like seaweed farms can play a vital role in fighting climate change.

At Terry, we are proud to support projects that restore our oceans and harness nature’s power for climate action. Every purchase made through Terry funds these efforts, helping us work toward a healthier planet, one project at a time.

Sources:

  1. Nature Climate Change: “Seaweed farms and carbon storage”
  2. Phys.org: “Seaweed farms’ potential for carbon sequestration”
  3. UN Environment Programme: “The role of blue carbon in climate action”
  4. Kelp Forest Alliance: “Restoring kelp ecosystems to fight climate change”

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