Cornwall’s Coastal Marvel: Rare Seaweed Discovery Offers New Hope in Climate Change Battle

In a groundbreaking discovery off the coasts of Falmouth and Penzance, Cornwall, researchers have unearthed a vast seabed of maerl, a rare and ancient type of seaweed, believed to be one of the largest findings of its kind in UK waters. This revelation comes as part of Cornwall Council’s project aimed at exploring the potential of marine habitats to combat climate change in collaboration with the University of Exeter and Natural Capital Solutions.

Spanning an area equivalent to nearly 900 rugby pitches, the maerl beds discovered within the Fal and Helford Estuary Special Area of Conservation are estimated to be up to 4,000 years old. This seabed not only serves as a crucial habitat for various marine life but also plays a significant role in carbon sequestration. With an estimated capacity to store approximately 841 tonnes of CO2 annually, maerl beds outperform other marine and coastal habitats in the region, marking a significant stride towards understanding natural solutions to climate challenges.

Dr. Chris Laing, a Senior Lecturer in Marine Biology at the University of Exeter and the research project lead, emphasised the importance of maerl not only as a rare seabed habitat but also as a critical component in coastal blue carbon assessments. The project has positioned Cornwall at the forefront of blue carbon habitat conservation, highlighting the need for comprehensive protection measures against threats such as anchor damage, nutrient discharge, and the impacts of climate change.

Cornwall Council, in partnership with local and national organisations, is now dedicated to safeguarding this valuable ecosystem. Efforts are underway to mitigate potential threats, including those posed by recreational boating and poor water quality, to ensure the longevity and health of these vital blue carbon ecosystems.

Cllr Martyn Alvey, Cornwall’s cabinet member for environment and climate change, shared his astonishment at the discovery and its significance for carbon storage and climate change mitigation. This research not only enriches our understanding of maerl but also underscores the importance of protecting and recovering blue carbon habitats as part of a broader ecological and climate response strategy.

The Blue Natural Capital Project, supported by Defra and the Environment Agency’s Natural Environment Investment Readiness Fund, aims to enhance knowledge of blue carbon in Cornwall. This project provides a foundation for future research and policy development, paving the way for investments in nature-based solutions to climate and ecological challenges.

Alison Holt, founder and Director at Natural Capital Solutions, suggests that future research should broaden its scope to include other benefits of marine and coastal habitats, such as storm protection and water purification. Understanding these benefits is crucial for establishing blue natural capital markets and attracting local business investments in habitat restoration.

For further details on the project and opportunities for investing in nature, interested parties are encouraged to visit the Blue Carbon and Local Investment in Nature sections on the Let’s Talk Cornwall website.