Over the past 40 years, one of Norway's biggest ecological disasters has taken place in Northern Norway: vast areas of kelp forests have disappeared. This critical development began after overfishing of catfish and coastal cod in the 70s and 80s, which led to a sharp decline in natural predators. Without their main enemies, sea urchins, they were given free rein and began to graze on Europe's largest kelp forests.
It is estimated that more than 80 billion sea urchins have grazed down the kelp forest, preventing regrowth by eating the kelp sprouts so quickly that the forest does not have a chance to re-establish itself. However, scientists from NIVA have documented that if sea urchins are removed from an area, the kelp forest can quickly return.
Kelp forests, often referred to as the “rainforest of the sea,” are a unique ecosystem with an incredible biodiversity – up to 100.000 organisms per square meter. They provide protection for fish fry and other marine species, and play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. For this reason, kelp forests are also referred to as “fish nurseries.”
Trefadder has, together with our customers, started Norway's largest kelp forest restoration project. Our goal is to restore these important underwater communities, while contributing to significant CO₂ capture. Restoring the kelp forest will not only help bring back species richness, but also ensure a sustainable future for our ocean.
Kelp forest restoration:
