Scientists call on the world to “Help the Kelp”

The ocean’s kelp forests are in deep trouble. Now, a global coalition is calling on governments to invest US $14 billion for their protection.

In a new policy analysis scheduled for full publication in early 2026, a coalition of ocean researchers propose the creation of a global kelp forest conservation fund to be used to protect and even expand kelp forests. Studies estimate that some 60% of the world’s kelp forests have declined in area in recent decades.

Ocean kelp forests usually thrive in cooler waters, making them vulnerable to global warming.

In their new paper, officials at the Kelp Forest Alliance and the University of New South Wales say need funding is needed to help protect and expand underwater forests that serve as critical fish nurseries and vessels for carbon storage. “Achieving such area-based targets requires significant financial investment,” the authors say.

The Alliance says it reached the US $14 billion figure after careful consultations among experts.

“Kelp forests are truly the fabric of our cold-water seas, but they’ve long been invisible in national and global conservation finance,” said lead author Aaron Eger in a synopsis.