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BACKGROUND

The Sargassum & Green Waste Landfill Crisis

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Fueled by nutrient runoff from fertilizers and rising sea temperatures due to climate change, the expanding Sargassum seaweed mass is wreaking havoc on marine and coastal ecosystems, choking marine life such as fish, dolphins, lobsters, and crabs. Its suffocating presence extends to coral reefs, seagrass, sea marshes and mangroves, and prevents sea turtles and seabirds from nesting.

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Image by Angel Luciano

Decaying seaweed triggers a foul-smelling odour through its decomposition, resulting in skin irritations and respiratory difficulties as it releases hydrogen sulfide gases. Its repercussions further extend to impact water and power supplies, while also contributing to the creation of substantial landfills, compounding the issue.

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Inflicting financial losses across various sectors, this grave threat impacts fisheries and livelihoods. The hospitality industry, encompassing hotels and resorts, yacht clubs, marinas, and others, grapples with declining tourism and surging costs.

The Sargassum Invasion Dominates Headlines

This unchecked sargassum invasion not only disrupts marine ecosystems but also plays a significant role in exacerbating climate change. As sargassum accumulates and decays, it releases substantial quantities of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. These emissions contribute significantly to global warming, intensifying the effects of climate change and posing a serious threat to both environmental and human health. Addressing this issue is crucial for mitigating its impact on our planet’s climate and restoring ecological balance.

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