Abstract:

Coastal resilience encompasses the ability of coastal regions to navigate and adapt to the myriad challenges presented by their dynamic environments. This talk delves into the multifaceted domain of coastal resilience through the lens of oceanography, where data analysis skills, combined with knowledge of marine environments, serve as indispensable tools. This talk explores two distinct avenues through which oceanographers can contribute to the understanding and enhancement of coastal resilience: carbon dioxide removal (CDR) in marine ecosystems and the improvement of water quality in inland saline lakes.

From the perspective of CDR, we will explore the potential of seaweed farming as a viable strategy to mitigate climate change impacts. The Global MacroAlgae Cultivation MODeling System (G-MACMODS), is leveraged to assess the feasibility of seaweed cultivation on a global scale and its implications for achieving climate goals. Additionally, this talk will address the urgent need for resilience in the context of the Salton Sea, California’s largest lake, which faces existential threats due to climate change and domestic policy decisions. We will delve into the complexities of problems such as eutrophication and hydrogen sulfide emissions, showcasing the proactive approaches adopted by local communities and exploring how oceanographers can partner with them.