Sargassum white paper : turning the crisis into an opportunity

Abstract

Since 2011, Caribbean coastlines have been subject to unprecedented, massive, episodic influxes of floating sargassum seaweed. While 2020 was relatively mild in terms of sargassum volumes, and a global pandemic became the overarching worry, 2018 was record breaking in terms of sargassum volumes reaching Caribbean shores and 2019 was also significant. Floating sargassum should not be construed as negative in and of itself – it is beneficial at sea, mainly as a unique pelagic habitat. However, the mass stranding of sargassum on coastlines has significant negative impacts (biophysical and socio-economic), particularly on coastal communities and livelihoods, public health, tourism and fisheries. The overall purpose of this white paper is to compile background information for a strategic status update and critical situational analysis that informs and elicits feedback from key regional stakeholders. It will also form the basis for development of a draft Concept Note for a UNEP Cartagena Convention-led project targeting key issues identified.