As global temperatures continue to rise, the urgency for effective climate change mitigation strategies has never been more pressing. With the Sultanate of Oman striving for carbon neutrality by 2050, innovative approaches are being explored, including cultivating seaweed in coastal waters.
Global warming, primarily driven by the increased levels of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere—especially carbon dioxide (CO2)—poses significant threats across various sectors. Governments worldwide are responding with strategies to reduce carbon emissions, limit fossil fuel use, and enhance carbon sequestration.
In 2022, the International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that Oman emitted approximately 74.92 million tonnes of CO2, ranking it as the 7th highest emitter in the Middle East and 45th globally. Alarmingly, Oman's CO2 emissions per capita were recorded at 16.372 tonnes, placing it 5th in the region. Recognising the gravity of the situation, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has initiated measures to combat climate change, including a national plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025.
One promising avenue being explored is the large-scale cultivation of seaweed, a natural carbon sink. Studies indicate that suitable ocean areas for seaweed aquaculture cover around 48 million km²—approximately 11% of the total ocean area. The potential carbon sequestration from seaweed farming could reach a staggering 72 billion tons annually, potentially surpassing global carbon emissions.
Countries like China already investing in seaweed farming to meet aggressive carbon neutrality targets. Research suggests that to fulfill its 2060 goal, China would need to cultivate 450,000 km² of high-yield seaweed species. However, the cultivation of other species may require significantly greater areas, underscoring the importance of selecting the right type of seaweed for effective carbon capture.
Further studies in the UK and Scotland underscore seaweed’s carbon sequestration capabilities, with findings suggesting an average organic carbon uptake of 8.75 g C/m² per year and annual absorption of approximately 1.73 tons of carbon per seaweed patch.
For Oman, the expansion of seaweed farming presents an opportunity not only to address carbon emissions but also to enhance coastal resource management. However, challenges remain. The effectiveness of blue carbon trade negotiations is currently hampered by a lack of data regarding the carbon sequestration potential of coastal ecosystems. Gathering this essential information is crucial for Omani stakeholders looking to engage in international negotiations.
In conclusion, as Oman positions itself to achieve carbon neutrality, the cultivation of seaweed could become a cornerstone of its climate strategy. By investing in research and leveraging the vast potential of its coastal areas, Oman could lead the way in innovative solutions to one of the most pressing global challenges of our time.
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