The plants that thrive in salt: could halophytes help save coastal farming?

As rising seas salinise the soils of the Venice lagoon, scientists and chefs are turning to long-forgotten wild herbs

The plants that thrive in salt: could halophytes help save coastal farming?

TL;DR

  • Rising sea levels and increased soil salinity are impacting agriculture in the Venice lagoon.
  • Halophytes, or salt-tolerant plants, are being explored as a solution for adapting to these changing conditions.
  • Scientists and researchers are working to understand and promote the edible potential of these wild herbs.
  • Chefs are incorporating halophytes into dishes to create demand and integrate them into local cuisine.
  • The initiative aims to foster cultural adaptation to climate change by reviving forgotten agricultural practices.