The Environmental and Economic Potential of Kelp as Blue Carbon: Case of Hakodate, Japan

Abstract

Kelp forests are a non-negligible blue carbon resource that has gained global attention as an ocean carbon source. In addition to the role of carbon storage, kelp forests have certain economic impact in Japan for a long time. However, the environmental and economic effects of kelp forests are not yet clear. Therefore, this chapter introduces the environmental and economic impacts of kelp forests in Hakodate City, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan, as a case study. The study suggests promoting cultivation of kelp from both ecological and economic aspects by financial schemes for conservation and restoration of natural kelp.