Climate Foundation – Regenerating Our Oceans

The Climate Foundation is an international nonprofit organization developing innovative, nature-based solutions to restore marine ecosystems, support coastal communities and address climate change. Founded by scientist and engineer Dr. Brian von Herzen, the organization is pioneering an approach known as Marine Permaculture, which seeks to regenerate underwater seaweed forests and improve the resilience of marine ecosystems in a warming world.

Bringing Life Back to the Ocean

Rising ocean temperatures and changes in water circulation threaten seaweed forests and the marine life that depends on them. The Climate Foundation develops systems that help seaweed access cooler, nutrient-rich deep water. Its technologies include renewable-energy-powered water circulation and submersible cultivation platforms that can move seaweed between different ocean depths. These systems aim to create better growing conditions, support biodiversity and strengthen marine food webs.

Marine Permaculture in the Philippines

One of the foundation's major demonstration projects is based in the Philippines, where its team works with local communities to develop more resilient seaweed cultivation. Marine Permaculture could help farmers maintain production despite marine heatwaves, while creating opportunities for sustainable coastal livelihoods. The foundation is also collaborating with researchers and engineering partners to improve the performance and scalability of offshore seaweed cultivation platforms.

Exploring Climate Solutions

Seaweed absorbs carbon dioxide as it grows, making marine cultivation an area of interest for climate research. The Climate Foundation is investigating how restored seaweed ecosystems might contribute to long-term carbon removal. The amount of carbon that can be permanently stored remains an important scientific question. Its approach combines ecological restoration, technological innovation and practical economic opportunities.

A Vision for Ocean Regeneration

The Climate Foundation envisions oceans where productive seaweed ecosystems support marine biodiversity, coastal communities and a healthier climate. By developing Marine Permaculture and testing its potential in real-world environments, the organization aims to turn ocean restoration into a scalable solution for the future.

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2https://www.climatefoundation.org/