They grasp onto hard rocky surfaces via the root system and grow towards the surface, which makes them look like an underwater forest. The thick shelter they provide makes them a great refuge for lots of different marine animals so they are an important habitat. They also act as a buffer which reduces wave energy so protects against storm surges and reduces coastal erosion by preventing sediments being swept away from the beaches.
There are a lot of healthy and successful kelp forests along the North East coastline. Experts are working together to collect evidence to show the benefits that these ecosystems provide by monitoring what is already there. It will then be possible to include kelp forests in guidance that influences decisions around coastal erosion protection. This work will be carried out by 3 PhD students from Newcastle University.
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of marine vegetation such as kelp can reduce wave energy by up to 40%.
of global carbon is circulated through the oceans and marine habitats.
of loss per year is the rate of erosion along parts of the North East coastline.
There are lots of opportunities to volunteer your time and expertise and help us restore ocean health.
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