Motivations and Effects of Volunteer Divers Restoring Norwegian Kelp Forests

Abstract

Kelp forests are in decline worldwide due to increasing anthropogenic pressures. Along the coastline of Northern Norway, spanning 15,000 kilometers, sea urchins have transformed the seabed from biodiverse kelp forests into barren grounds dominated by sea urchins. To address this issue, the initiative The Guardians of the Kelp engages volunteer divers in Northern Norway in monthly clearing events to remove sea urchins to allow for the re-establishment of kelp. Their Guardians of the Kelp aims to raise awareness of the degradation of the highly productive and biodiverse kelp forest —a transition below the surface of the ocean that has largely remained unnoticed by the public. This study explores the impact of this restoration initiative by analyzing the ecological effects of sea urchin removal on kelp biomass and colonizing fauna while exploring the volunteers’ perceptions of the contribution from the restoration. Moreover, for the enhanced viability of this and future marine restoration projects, the motivations driving volunteer participation in this marine restoration project were investigated. The findings suggest a notable contribution to nature through the successful re-establishment of kelp and colonization by fauna. A sense of connection to the ocean was found to drive the volunteers’ desire to help nature to regenerate, and to raise awareness and engage volunteers in restoration efforts. Advocating for the kelp forests facilitated important expansion to new diving clubs and attention at a high political level, supporting the future success of the project. In return, the volunteers received positive feelings and a heightened sense of hope about the positive nature change. This study contributes to a broader understanding of the role of volunteer engagement in addressing marine issues and contribute to improved management of the ocean, while fostering renewed relationships between people and nature to the benefit of both society and the planet.