A recent study conducted by investors Craig Douglas and Ross Brooks suggests that seaweed has the potential to be a major climate solution. The study highlights the vast opportunity presented by seaweed in displacing fossil fuel-based products and carbon sequestration. With 70% of the Earth’s surface covered by oceans, ocean-based climate solutions have the potential to be scaled on a large level.
Research has shown that seaweed can store around 50 times more carbon than the atmosphere and has already sequestered about 30% of anthropogenic CO2 emissions. Despite this potential, ocean-based methods for CO2 removal have been largely unexplored. However, European startups are making progress in utilizing seaweed for various applications, such as bioplastics, bioenergy, food, and animal feed.
The study predicts that industries such as bio-stimulants and bio-packaging could see significant growth by 2030 as a result of the increased use of seaweed. Additionally, there are numerous co-benefits to scaling up the planting and farming of seaweed, such as providing habitats for marine life and absorbing excess nutrients from the water.
In an interview, Ross Brooks emphasized the versatility of seaweed as a crop that can play a significant role in addressing current environmental challenges. Craig Douglas added that the potential for carbon sequestration through seaweed is enormous, making it a promising solution for combating climate change. The two investors advocate for increased investment in ocean-based solutions, emphasizing the need for a new approach to scale and build new infrastructure.
The study highlights the need for further research and innovation in the field of seaweed farming. Ross Brooks notes that there are several innovations in the pipeline that could improve the resilience, growth, and quality of seaweed for various applications. The potential for large-scale carbon sequestration through seaweed farming is immense, with the possibility of sequestering millions of tons of carbon if scaled up globally.
Overall, the study underscores the importance of seaweed as a valuable resource for addressing climate change and creating a more sustainable future. By unlocking the full potential of seaweed through investment, research, and innovation, it is possible to harness the benefits of this versatile crop to mitigate the impacts of climate change and create a more environmentally friendly economy.
