We're thrilled to launch "Blue Pioneers," a trailblazing new podcast exploring the visionaries driving bold innovation across the marine science, conservation and "blue tech" space.
In our premiere episode, hosted by the skipper of the Sea Change Row Crew and founder of NatureMetrics, Kat Bruce, we launch into the vast potential of seaweed and kelp cultivation with Samantha Deane, founding director of the Kelp Forest Foundation.
Seaweed: The "Swiss Army Knife" of Ocean Solutions
As Deane shares, seaweed represents "the biggest untapped potential for this and future generations." This rapidly regenerating marine resource boasts incredible versatility with applications spanning bio-stimulants, bioplastics, leather alternatives and more.
But the benefits go far beyond its industrial uses. Seaweed forests act as powerful "ecosystem engineers," sequestering carbon, hosting up to 1,000 biodiversity species, deacidifying waters, and providing a host of other environmental services.
"There are 12,000 types of seaweed, and we probably only know about 30% of the uses."
Kelp: A Potent Weapon Against Climate Change
Deane reveals how a specific strain of red seaweed could play a major role in combating climate change by reducing methane from cattle by 50-85% when fed in small doses. This natural seaweed solution represents a promising pathway to decarbonizing the agricultural industry.
An Ocean of Opportunity
Deane emphasizes that this tech is ready now to make a difference, “not 20 years from now when we've discovered a machine that sequesters carbon."
The Kelp Forest Foundation’s goal is to unlock seaweed's full potential as a nature-based climate solution, from rewilding initiatives to leveraging seaweed-derived biostimulants as sustainable fertilizer alternatives.
Let us know your thoughts on harnessing the power of seaweed by joining the conversation on social media with @seachangerow.
Learn more: Kelp Forest Foundation
Seaweed-derived bioplastics: https://www.greenbiz.com/article/edible-packaging-will-make-you-reconsider-seaweed
Follow the Sea Change Row, a 2000-km non-stop row with an all woman crew around Great Britain. It's part of the Annual GB Row Challenge, which begins on June 9, 2024. https://linktr.ee/seachangerow
About Kat Bruce, PhD: Kat currently sits on the steering group of the UK DNA Working Group and the steering committee of the UK Business and Biodiversity Forum. After completing her PhD in 2014, Kat set up NatureMetrics to bridge the gap between the powerful molecular tools being developed in the research world and the environmental managers who could benefit from their use.
