What we do
Green Gravel Active Restoration
Green Gravel Active Restoration
Green Gravel Active Restoration
We are working with scientists at the Marine Biological Association to research and innovate a restoration method known as “green gravel.” This approach nurtures local kelp spores in the lab on cleaned gravel and waste scallop shells. Seedlings appear within weeks, and after three months the substrates are deployed at sea. Ongoing trials
We are working with scientists at the Marine Biological Association to research and innovate a restoration method known as “green gravel.” This approach nurtures local kelp spores in the lab on cleaned gravel and waste scallop shells. Seedlings appear within weeks, and after three months the substrates are deployed at sea. Ongoing trials are refining seeding strategies and aquarium conditions to maximise success.
Recycled Shell Reeftiles
Green Gravel Active Restoration
Green Gravel Active Restoration
Working with the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) and Denmark‑based ReefCircular, we are trialling an innovative kelp restoration method: seeding spores onto recycled scallop shells to regenerate coastal kelp forests on seawall structures and link marine conservation with the seafood industry.
Mapping Global Seaweed Forests
Green Gravel Active Restoration
Mapping Global Seaweed Forests
Protection begins with recognising the ecological and economic value of seaweed forests. With partners in the USA and South Korea, we are mapping and naming important seaweed forests worldwide in partnership with local communities. By showcasing these key marine habitats, we aim to enhance the protection they receive.
Education & Advocacy
Turning Waste into Valuable Products
Mapping Global Seaweed Forests
We have co‑funded two PhD students based at the Marine Biological Association in Plymouth. They are advancing active restoration measures, such as the green gravel seeding technique, and investigating the health of Devon’s native seaweed populations. Their work supports the development of national guidance to inform government and other s
We have co‑funded two PhD students based at the Marine Biological Association in Plymouth. They are advancing active restoration measures, such as the green gravel seeding technique, and investigating the health of Devon’s native seaweed populations. Their work supports the development of national guidance to inform government and other stakeholders about the opportunities and challenges associated with seaweed harvesting and conservation.
Ecological Baselines
Turning Waste into Valuable Products
Turning Waste into Valuable Products
In Hong Kong, seaweeds have been documented since the mid‑19th century; however, few studies have examined the impacts of urbanisation and climate change on their populations. This work is developing a historical baseline against which to compare the current state of marine forests.
Turning Waste into Valuable Products
Turning Waste into Valuable Products
Turning Waste into Valuable Products
Asia produces 97% of farmed seaweed for use in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Waste occurs across the supply chain. The hydrocolloid industry utilises only 15–30% of cultivated seaweed, with the remaining biomass often ending up in landfill. We are working with seaweed processors in the Philippines and Indonesia to identify alternative applications for this waste.
Our Board
Rosie Bright
Alison Freeman
Alison Freeman
Rosie is a former employee of the United Nations and was based in Africa for several years working on food security and social protection under climate change and the COVID pandemic. Rosie is a strong advocate for community-led initiatives to support pressing environmental issues.
Alison Freeman
Alison Freeman
Alison Freeman
Alison founded The Kelp Conservation Initiative in 2023 after many years working in the fishing, aquaculture and seafood sector. She recognised the important ecological role seaweeds played and was concerned about the lack of visibility they received and low levels of protection.
Sian Moody
Laura Boardman
Laura Boardman
Sian is a social researcher at the University of Exeter working on the reintroduction of wild cats into the southwest of England. Holding an MA in Anthrozology from the University of Exeter (Dean’s recommendation for Exceptional Performance) and a BSc in Anthropology, her passion for humans, animals, and conservation was informed by field
Sian is a social researcher at the University of Exeter working on the reintroduction of wild cats into the southwest of England. Holding an MA in Anthrozology from the University of Exeter (Dean’s recommendation for Exceptional Performance) and a BSc in Anthropology, her passion for humans, animals, and conservation was informed by fieldwork on the Hainan Gibbon in China. Sian comes from a career in Research Impact, supporting the translation of research to create real-world change.
Laura Boardman
Laura Boardman
Laura Boardman
Laura is an illustrator and communications specialist. Her work has supported businesses worldwide to build understanding, knowledge and engagement through graphics. Laura is an avid lover of the sea and can often be found swimming around the coast of Devon, in winter and summer!
With thanks to our partners and funders
