A Kelping Hand for the Environment

Our lucky pupils at Truro School Prep were treated to a fascinating talk from marine biologist Luke Ansell, Head of Operations and Research at Algapelago. Algapelago is the largest UK-licensed kelp cultivator, growing local seaweeds from seed in low-impact forests out in the ocean.

Luke spoke about the challenges facing our oceans, the importance of sea kelp beds, and the pressing need to regenerate marine habitats.

He also introduced Algapelago’s solution to climate change and resource scarcity: the Blue Forest Programme. This initiative aims to create a network of sustainable, scalable seaweed forests, or “algapelagos”, that act as undersea rainforests to accelerate marine regeneration. Their first Blue Forest test site, located off the north coast of Devon, is currently in development. If successful in boosting biodiversity and marine recovery, the team plans to scale the concept globally.

The children were extremely engaged, with many budding marine biologists asking thoughtful questions. Topics ranged from the species visiting the Blue Forests to the practicalities of constructing the large 3D kelp-growing infrastructures, and even the thorny issue of sea urchins!

We would like to thank Luke for taking the time to speak with our pupils and for sharing his passion for this innovative and inspiring research.