Oyster Shell Recycling

This picture was taken on April 14 in Manteo, North Carolina. Oyster shells, once eaten, can be recycled and used to restore oyster reefs. The shells in the picture were from an oyster shell recycling site, which were then bagged to be used. In the past, these shells were used in construction - used for building roads and houses. Now, the Oyster Recovery Partnership has created the Shell Recycling Alliance (SRA) dedicated to creating awareness of the oyster shell, which is considered a limited natural resource. Many of the shells come from restaurants that partner with groups such as the SRA, though the general public is also encouraged to recycle shells as well. The shells are taken and used to create habitats for new oysters to grow and develop, and one half shell can provide a home for about 10 baby oysters! In addition to creating habitat for other oysters, oyster reefs can provide homes for a variety of marine life, including fish, shrimp, and crabs.

Sources: oysterrecovery.org/sra/, saltwaterfishing.sc.gov/oyster.html

 

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