By protecting kelp forests, sea otters enhance carbon sequestration, helping mitigate climate change.

Kelp forests capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, storing it in their biomass and in the deep ocean when kelp detritus sinks. This process, known as carbon sequestration, can remove significant amounts of CO2, a major greenhouse gas. When sea otters keep urchin populations in check, kelp forests thrive and continue this carbon drawdown. Research shows that healthy kelp beds supported by otters can contribute to the ocean's carbon storage, making otters an indirect but important ally in climate regulation.