Sargassum Surge: What’s Fueling More Stinky Seaweed?

Sargassum is a floating brown algae that provides a habitat for marine life. It helps keep oceans healthy but can become a problem when too much accumulates on beaches. This year’s record levels of sargassum, about 37.5 million metric tons, are linked to nutrient runoff and climate change. As it decomposes, it can harm the environment and human health. Coastal areas are struggling with the odor and cleanup costs.