Unlocking the Power of Our Oceans in the Fight Against Climate Change
It’s mind-boggling just how much carbon the UK’s marine environments can store—244 million tonnes to be exact.
That figure alone shows why we cannot overlook the role our seas play in tackling the climate crisis. From saltmarshes and seagrass meadows to deep seabeds, our oceans are among the UK’s most powerful natural allies in capturing and storing carbon. But they can only continue to do this vital job if we look after them.
Earlier this month, I chaired a roundtable in Parliament bringing together scientists, environmental experts, and representatives from the fishing industry to explore a simple but critical question: where is carbon stored in our oceans, and what can we do to protect it?
We heard powerful evidence about the importance of healthy marine ecosystems. When our seabeds are disturbed—whether by pollution, trawling, or coastal erosion—stored carbon can be released back into the atmosphere. That’s why protecting blue carbon stores isn’t just an environmental priority; it’s a climate one too.
The discussion also highlighted how ocean health links directly to people’s livelihoods. Sustainable fishing, clean seas, and marine protection zones all play a part in safeguarding jobs, food supplies, and long-term resilience in our coastal communities.
South East Cornwall is shaped by its coast. From Looe to Polperro, our connection to the sea is deep and historic. It’s vital that national policy reflects that reality—and that we give proper support to both marine conservation and coastal industries.
This is only the beginning of the conversation. I’ll continue pushing in Parliament for strong, science-led protection of our marine environments and for investment in sustainable coastal communities.
If you’d like to be part of this work, or have thoughts to share on local marine issues, I’d love to hear from you.
Anna Gelderd MP
Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall