Carbon Sequestration Potential of Kappaphycus alvarezii Seaweed Cultivation in Bondo Waters, Jepara Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

Global warming poses a critical challenge worldwide, driven by high levels of carbon emissions. This study aims to evaluate the carbon sequestration potential of Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed cultivated using the longline system in Bondo waters, Mlonggo District, Jepara Regency. The research involves measuring carbon absorption, analyzing carbon content, estimating the total carbon sequestration potential of the cultivation area, and assessing the relationship between water quality parameters and carbon absorption levels. Samples were collected periodically on days 14, 28, 42, and 49 during a single cultivation cycle. Results reveal a total carbon absorption of 305.21 tons of C per cycle (1,831.27 tons of C per year) with the highest carbon content recorded at 43.68% on day 28. The total carbon sequestration potential across an effective cultivation area of 44.36 hectares is estimated at 40,617.79 tons of C annually. The study also identifies a positive correlation between carbon absorption, biomass growth, and water quality parameters such as brightness, salinity, and pH. These findings support the development of seaweed cultivation as a viable solution for mitigating carbon emissions through integration into carbon trading schemes and blue economy programs. This research makes a significant contribution toward Indonesia's net zero emissions target by 2060 while offering sustainable economic and social benefits for coastal communities. Further studies are recommended to explore the long-term effects of repeated cultivation cycles and the diversification of other seaweed species.