Why Kelp Matters

Kelp forests are underwater rainforests that support marine life, protect coastlines, and store carbon. This page explains why they’re so important—and what’s putting them at risk.

The Underwater Rainforests

Kelp forests rival tropical rainforests in productivity and biodiversity.

Healthy kelp forest

Why Kelp Forests Are Irreplaceable

Kelp forests are among the fastest-growing and most productive ecosystems on Earth. These underwater forests:

  • Provide habitat and shelter for over 1,000 marine species, including fish, invertebrates, and marine mammals.
  • Can sequester far more carbon per area than many land forests, supporting climate stability.
  • Act as natural breakwaters, reducing wave energy, protecting shorelines, and preventing erosion.
  • Support fisheries, food security, and cultural practices for coastal and Indigenous communities.

The Crisis We Face

In the past few decades, many kelp forests have collapsed. Some regions, like Northern California, have seen declines of up to 95%. British Columbia’s coasts are also at risk due to:

  • Marine heatwaves and rising temperatures that stress kelp and increase disease.
  • Exploding sea urchin populations that overgraze kelp when their predators decline.
  • Pollution, nutrient runoff, and sedimentation that reduce light and water quality.
  • A feedback loop where losing kelp means losing blue carbon storage, which further accelerates climate change.
Damaged kelp forest

How You Can Help

Small choices in our daily lives can reduce pressure on kelp forests—and support those restoring them.

Shop Sustainably

  • Choose sustainable seafood (e.g. MSC certified).
  • Reduce plastic use—reusable bags, bottles, and cups.
  • Support brands using low-impact packaging.

Daily Habits

  • Use reef-safe sunscreen when you’re in the ocean.
  • Conserve water to reduce polluted runoff.
  • Dispose of fishing lines and nets properly.

Spread Awareness

  • Share stories about kelp and blue carbon with friends, family, and classmates.
  • Join or organize local shoreline cleanups.
  • Support kelp-focused nonprofits like Kelp Forest Alliance and local restoration groups.

Small Changes Make Big Waves

None of us can solve the kelp crisis alone—but collectively our choices shape coastlines. Every action that reduces pressure on the ocean helps make room for kelp to recover.

Explore the Kelp Map

Key Facts About Kelp

20x

Kelp forests can be up to 20x more productive than land forests.

1,000+

Species rely on kelp forests for habitat and food.

30%

Coastal blue carbon (including kelp) plays a major role in carbon storage.

$500B

Estimated global economic value of kelp ecosystems each year.