Together we can restore the health of our planet
The Kelp Forest Foundation (KFF) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to establishing kelp forests as a valued nature-based solution. We collaborate with coastal communities and leading scientists to holistically address gaps in scientific knowledge, protect wild spaces and increase ocean accessibility through capacity building and education programs.
We believe in a future where both people and the planet are not only surviving, but thriving. With a regenerative powerhouse like kelp forests enabling just climate solutions, we think this reimagined world is within reach. We work with scientists, coastal communities, and industry players to support the responsible expansion of kelp, both cultivated and wild. We do this through our key focus areas.
Research
Establishing research and mentorship programs with universities to improve systems that monitor and evaluate kelp forests’ ecological benefits.
Reforestation
Spearheading restoration projects across the globe that protect, restore and reforest natural kelp forests.
Value Creation
Fostering new generations of ocean stewards and scientists by facilitating ocean-focused education programs, professional development opportunities and safety courses to youth and graduate students.
Our oceans are facing growing challenges from climate change, pollution, and loss of marine life. To protect kelp forest ecosystems, we need to better understand how they work and find practical solutions that can help them recover and thrive.
Driven to uncover science behind the ecosystem services of kelp and the various benefits of kelp products, we collaborate with renowned universities and research institutions worldwide – by initiating and catalyzing research projects, build capacity through scholarships and curriculum development, and share the knowledge to a relevant public.
We initiate and fund studies to:
We develop marine talent by:
Research must be shared to inspire change. We:
Our global biodiversity project explores kelp forests around the world, using innovative eDNA techniques to study marine life and biodiversity, and establish baselines on the health of these kelp forests. By creating a strong scientific foundation of kelp ecology, we are building a framework for kelp conservation and paving the way for effective tools for natural capital credits.
Our pilot project, along the coast of the Falkland Islands/Islas Malvinas, studied some of the world’s most pristine wild kelp forests. Led by Dr. Narissa Bax, eDNA sampling revealed what a health and untouched kelp forest ecosystem looks like.
What’s next?
The next phase has already started: Together with Dr. Narissa Bax, we have collected a follow-up set of eDNA samples at the French Southern and Antarctic Islands. These samples need further funding to be analyzed and integrated.
The third phase of this project will include expansion to the kelp forest habitats of Argentinian Patagonia, Chile, New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, USA, Canada, and more.
And we need your help…
Join us in closing this critical data gap in marine conservation. Right now, we do not have enough data to protect kelp forests and improve their management. Your support helps us use cutting-edge eDNA technology to build a clear understanding of kelp biodiversity worldwide, so that we can act earlier, manage better, and protect more kelp forests.
Download our project description and see how you can support this project as a partner or funder.
The Blue House Fellowship is our UN Ocean Decade-endorsed program through which we provide rolling scholarships to Namibian students to develop scientific talent in natural ecosystems.
Our vision is for the graduates of this programme to enrich the talent pool in the skillsets required for a future in which humanity and nature are in better harmony.
50% of the world’s kelp forests have collapsed under our watch. And overgrazing urchins continue to be the biggest threat. To address this problem, we are enabling solutions to restore the world’s kelp forests.
By leveraging fisheries, aquaculture, and restoration technologies, we help co-create profitable, as well as ecologically restorative and socially impactful business models that help regenerate kelp forests.
Overfishing causes collapse of kelp forest ecosystem, as the natural predators of urchin are removed. Urchins then take over after grazing all the kelp.
When kelp forests reach this stage, they are called urchin barrens or marine deserts.
Once urchins are removed, a kelp forest can recover in a very short time. In 3-9 months, they can bounce back to a lush forest.
Healthy forests can support fisheries, food supply, and provide jobs to coastal communities
Citizens
Want to help protect our oceans?
Whether you’re looking to take direct action, raise awareness in your community, or simply learn more about how you can support your local kelp forests – there’s a place for you here. We’re building a movement of everyday ambassadors for the ocean, and you can be one of them. Reach out to discover how you can get involved.
Restoration initiatives
Together we’re stronger. If you are already working on kelp restoration or ocean conservation, let’s collaborate. Use our platform to amplify your work, or access support in communicating the value of your work to stakeholders. Tell us a bit more about your project in our contact form and we will reach out to you.
Corporates
Join us in making a real, measurable impact on marine ecosystems. Through strategic partnerships, CSR initiatives, or direct investment in restoration efforts, your company can help safeguard the biodiversity and climate resilience that healthy kelp forests provide.
Let’s create lasting value—for the planet and your brand.
Governmental Organizations
We work hand in hand with local and national governments to inform and support science-based ocean policy, marine spatial planning, and biodiversity targets. Let’s co-develop solutions that align with sustainability goals and empower coastal communities.
Partner with us to protect natural heritage and build climate resilience.
Funders
Your support fuels real impact. From pioneering restoration techniques to community engagement and data-driven monitoring, your contributions directly support scalable solutions to restore and protect kelp ecosystems.
Join a network of visionary funders driving marine restoration forward.
Kelp-based products have incredible potential. Kelp can be turned into sustainable packaging, textiles, food, agricultural products, and beyond. Yet despite this promise, product development and adoption is still slow to take off. We see an opportunity to change that.
At Kelp Forest Foundation, we’re working to accelerate the integration of kelp-based solutions into everyday industries.
We actively engage with established businesses, helping them incorporate kelp innovations to reduce their environmental impact.
We also support the new wave of nature-positive entrepreneurs. By connecting with early-stage kelp-based innovators, we amplify their work, build awareness, and bring their solutions to market faster.
Are you a business looking to incorporate kelp in your products? Or are you a venture focused on turning kelp into valuable products? Reach out to us to for collaborations!
Unlocking the power of kelp