Kelp forests (dense stands of large brown seaweed primarily of the Order Laminariales), dominate rocky reefs along temperate and subpolar coastlines around the world. These forests are considered among the most diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth that modify local environmental conditions and provide a three dimensional habitat for an array of marine life. These forests are similar in structure to terrestrial forests, with a canopy layer that facilitates the formation of rich understorey algal assemblages, that in turn provides food and shelter for macroinvertebrates, which are food for species from higher trophic levels such as fishes.
Coastal Comeback: Overcoming Policy Challenges to Marine Restoration at Scale
Restoration policy is limiting marine restoration. This report, shows how these constraints affect delivery, and presents sector wide evidence that the current system does not operate proportionately for restoration projects. It then outlines a structured and legally grounded programme of reforms aimed at supporting ecological recovery, improving consistency and efficiency, and enabling restoration.
03 July 2026