Golden Kelp
Rainforests of the Ocean
Golden Kelp
Golden kelp, Ecklonia radiata, is a a naturally occurring kelp that grows in the cooler waters of Southern Australia. Golden kelp is high-value, sustainable, zero-input algae that does not require fertiliser, pesticides or chemicals to grow. Kelp is one of the fastest growing plants on earth.
Seaweed and our Oceans
Scientific studies have shown that natural seaweed populations have reduced by 40% worldwide over the last 25 years. As a result of carbon absorption, ocean temperatures have increased which inhibits ocean upwelling. Oceans have reportedly absorbed 93% of the heat from global warming.
How Kelp Captures Carbon
Seaweed produces oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis which converts nutrients, carbon dioxide and sunlight into sugars that the plant uses for growth. Seaweed aquaculture is a major avenue capable of mitigating climate change. 1 hectare of kelp can sequester up 18 tonnes of CO2.
Benefits of Kelp
Seaweed counteracts ocean acidification and aids oxygenation, it absorbs excess nutrients and provides secure habitats for marine life. Kelp is recognised as the most environmentally friendly forms of aquaculture.
Kelp products
Golden Kelp has multiple high-value outputs including high-protein foods for human consumption, rich fertilisers, pharmaceutical products, bioplastics, feed for cattle and high-energy bio-fuels. These applications create skilled jobs in aquaculture techniques and associated product processing.
Carbon Credits
A fully grown seaweed array can sequester up to 18 tonnes of CO2 per hectare. A 200-hectare seaweed array will sequester 3,600 tonnes of carbon per year. The average Australian uses 20 tonnes of carbon per year, therefore offsetting the carbon output of 180 people.