Can Seaweed Save the World?

Watch Can Seaweed Save the World?

  • 2017
  • 55 min

Can Seaweed Save the World? is an informative and thought-provoking documentary that explores the potential of seaweed to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The film is presented by renowned climate scientist and author, Tim Flannery, whose passion for the environment is palpable throughout. The documentary takes viewers on a journey across the globe, from Australia to Scotland, South Korea to Mexico, to meet with experts in the field of seaweed research and production. Flannery interviews farmers, scientists, and entrepreneurs who are using seaweed in innovative ways to reduce carbon emissions, improve soil health, and even develop renewable energy sources.

One of the key messages of the film is the potential of seaweed to sequester carbon. Seaweed absorbs large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere as it grows, and this carbon is then stored in the seaweed's tissues. When seaweed is harvested and used for products such as fertilizer or animal feed, the carbon remains locked away, effectively removing it from the atmosphere.

The documentary highlights the potential of seaweed farming to reduce carbon emissions from other industries. For example, in Scotland, seaweed is being used to capture the CO2 emissions from whisky distilleries, which are a significant contributor to climate change. Seaweed is also being used in the construction industry, with researchers developing a seaweed-based concrete that has a much lower carbon footprint than traditional concrete.

In addition to its carbon sequestration potential, seaweed has numerous other benefits. The film explores the use of seaweed in agriculture, with farmers using seaweed extracts as a natural alternative to chemical fertilizers. Seaweed is also being used in animal feed, with researchers finding that it can improve the health and productivity of livestock.

The documentary also touches on the potential of seaweed as a renewable energy source. Seaweed can be used to produce biofuels, such as ethanol or methane, and can also be used in the production of electricity through anaerobic digestion. While these technologies are still in the early stages of development, the potential for seaweed to be a significant source of renewable energy is exciting.

Throughout the documentary, Flannery is a charismatic and engaging host, bringing a real sense of urgency to the issues of climate change and the potential of seaweed as a solution. He is clearly passionate about the subject matter, and his enthusiasm is infectious.

The film is also visually stunning, with beautiful shots of seaweed farms and the ocean landscape. The documentary successfully conveys the importance of protecting our oceans and the potential of seaweed to help mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Overall, Can Seaweed Save the World? is an informative and engaging documentary that offers hope in the face of a global crisis. It highlights the potential of seaweed to be a key player in the fight against climate change and offers inspiring examples of how seaweed is being used in innovative ways around the world. Highly recommended for anyone interested in environmental issues or looking for positive solutions to the challenges facing our planet.

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Description
  • Release Date
    2017
  • Runtime
    55 min