Seaweed Usage against Climate Crisis

Seaweed are among the oldest organisms on the planet. It is thought that they emerged approximately three billion years ago. Today, they form a biomass of billions of tons both in fresh waters and seas. They can be mainly categorized in two groups: microalgae and macroalgae. Microalgae are planktons in microscopic dimensions, impossible to see with naked eye. And macroalgae are the brown, red or green seaweed we see on the seashore which can extend to meters in length.

The most important characteristic of seaweed is their extraordinarily high capacity for photosynthesis. They can grow much faster than many land plants. They sustain themselves through the utilization of sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water; consequently, they also contribute significantly to the regulation of carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

Their difference from land plants is very obvious. For instance, seaweed do not have roots, stems, or leaves. As they live underwater, they do not need structural support systems. And this enables them to spend much of their energy on growing and photosynthesis. In other words, nature has given them powers of speed and efficiency.

One of the most talked about subjects in climate crisis discussions is carbon emissions. Carbon dioxide accumulated in the atmosphere is the main reason for global warming. And seaweed enter the scene exactly at this point. Scientists estimate that seaweed in the oceans produce half of the global oxygen. As such, one of every two breaths we take is a gift from these tiny creatures in the seas.

Carbon capture power of seaweed is much more effective than many land ecosystems. Forests are known as carbon sinks. However, considering the amount per square meter, some kinds of seaweed can capture more than ten times of carbon compared to forests. Furthermore, they sink to the bottom of the sea, thus ensuring long-term carbon storage. This means that carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can be stored not for a short-term, but for centuries.

The role of seaweed in the oceans being big carbon sinks cannot be ignored. This biological activity in the seas is actually an invisible brake in the process of climate crisis. Nevertheless, it should be reminded that seaweed are also under duress due to increased temperatures and acidification.

Fossil fuels are the main reason for climate crisis. Alternative energy sources are sought for across the world. Seaweed present an interesting option in this area as well. Because it is possible to produce biofuel from seaweed. Both diesel and jet fuel-like products can be obtained.

Seaweed-based fuels have great advantages. First of all, they supply a steady stream of raw materials due to their rapid growth. Secondly, they do not require agricultural areas. They can grow in the water without occupying large lands. Thirdly, they consume carbon dioxide during production. In other words, they supply energy without placing strain on the atmosphere.

Of course, there are some challenges as well. Seaweed-based biofuel still has an inflated cost. Significant investments are required for production on an industrial scale. However, as we have seen in renewable energy technologies, the costs may decrease over time. Historically regarded as "costly," wind and solar energy have now emerged as the most practical alternatives, serving as an encouraging precedent for fuels derived from seaweed.

Climate crisis does not only consist of the issue of energy. Food security is also a big issue. İncreased population, reduced agricultural areas and drought can make it challenging to feed billions of people in the future. And seaweed enter the scene exactly at this point.

Seaweed are rich in protein. Some species contain up to 60 percent protein. Furthermore, they are a strong source in terms of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Therefore, many researchers point to seaweed as a super food of the future. Species such as spirulina and chlorella have a major place in the food supplement market even today.

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They have a high potential for utilization in agriculture. Biofertilizers obtained from seaweed can increase the fertility of the soil. If was also observed that it has a reduction impact on methane emissions when used in animal feed. And this is an important way to minimize the impact of agriculture on the climate crisis.

Benefits of seaweed are not limited with direct impacts; they become even more impressive when combined with technology. When integrated into carbon capture technologies, seaweed enable biological transformation of carbon dioxide released by industrial facilities to the atmosphere, directing it to reusable sources.

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Moreover, it is also possible to produce bioplastics from seaweed. Biodegradable materials derived from seaweed can be used instead of plastics based on fossil fuels. Seaweed-based products are being tested in many areas, from fashion to cosmetics. These products are both environmentally friendly and create new economic opportunities.

Every solution brings with is certain risks. Overproduction of seaweed can create imbalances in the ecosystems of the seas. Artificially established seaweed farms carry the risk of having impacts on endemic species. Furthermore, it is also possible for big-scale investments to encounter political and economic obstacles.

A comprehensive strategy is essential when pursuing solutions for the climate crisis, rather than relying on a singular approach. Although seaweed have high potential, this potential should be carefully managed. Interventions made without observing the sensitive balances of nature can create new problems instead of solving the existing ones.

The world aims to be carbon neutral by 2050. The role of seaweed is being increasingly discussed in achieving this big goal. From the United Nations to universities, many institutions invest in seaweed-based projects. Big-scale seaweed farms started to be established in Japan, USA, and Europe.

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In the future, seaweed has the potential to bring about not only an environmental change but also an economic and cultural transformation. This green gold in the sea can transform many areas, from energy sector to agriculture, from food to fashion. For perhaps the first time in history, humanity is filled with hope regarding such a minuscule organism in nature.

The fight against climate crisis cannot be solved by technology or nature alone. Creative approaches that integrate both are needed. At this point, seaweed is one of the rare actors that can play a role at the center of both natural and technological solutions.

It would be a big mistake to think of them as a simple plant we see on the beach. We are actually talking about a colossal force that safeguards the equilibrium of the planet's atmosphere, capable of generating the energy of the future, nourishing us at our tables, and transforming our industrial resources.

Highlighting the often-overlooked heroism of seaweed involves recognizing the most potent tools available to us in the fight against the climate crisis. Perhaps, in the world of the future, our children will breath on a planet saved by seaweed.