The Undervalued Importance of Underwater Ecosystems.

Kelp forests, which hug a third of coastlines worldwide, have been found to have a significant commercial value, according to a study by researchers at the University of New South Wales. The study found that kelp forests provide food and homes for much of our coastal seafood, and are also used to fertilise crops, add to medicines and skincare, and produce oxygen. The economic value of kelp forest contribution to fisheries production averages $29,851 and 904 kilograms per hectare per year. Kelp forests also play a huge role in global nutrient cycles, removing carbon dioxide from their environment and producing oxygen in the process.