Shells for Shorelines is an oyster recycling program that takes donated oyster shells from restaurants and repurposes them for native oyster restoration programs in Southern California.
This initiative helps reduce food waste, lower program costs, and engage the local community in marine science projects.
‘Shells for Shorelines’ Story with KCAL9 News
December 2024
Why Restore Native Oysters?
Oyster reefs are disappearing at an alarming rate. Oyster reefs in California have declined by 85% due to a combination of factors, including overharvesting, habitat destruction, and water quality degradation. Oysters are a cornerstone of healthy coastal ecosystems. They aren’t just a tasty treat but tiny titans in the ocean.
Oysters help…
buffer shorelines from erosion caused by storms and waves
remove pollutants and improve water clarity
provide vital nursery grounds for fish and shellfish, promoting biodiversity
How We Recycle Oyster Shells
1. People enjoy eating freshly shucked oysters and shellfish at restaurants.
2. Partnered restaurants collect oyster shells in buckets after meals.
3. We pick up the shells from restaurants and transport them to a drying facility.
4. The shells bask in the sunshine for one year, undergoing a natural curing process that eliminates harmful pathogens and organisms.
5. After their year of rejuvenation, the shells find new purpose in projects like creating critical oyster beds for our Living Shorelines and shell string projects.
Partner Restaurants
Support Shells for Shorelines
Become a
Restaurant Partner
Fill out this short interest form or contact Kaysha Kenney (kaysha@coastkeeper.org) for more information.
