Shell Recycling

Oyster shell recycling is the process of diverting waste shells and reusing them as the base of new oyster reef habitats, transforming discarded waste into the foundation of a circular system that supports reef restoration and marine biodiversity.

Each year, thousands of tonnes of oyster shells are discarded by restaurants, markets and other sources - treated as waste and sent to landfill. But these shells are not waste. They are one of the most valuable natural materials for restoring life in our coastal waters.

Reef Restoration

Oyster shells are the critical resource for effective reef restoration. As the preferred settlement substrate for oyster larvae (spat), shells provide the structural and chemical cues necessary for recruitment, growth and long-term reef development. The availability of oyster shells is the major limiting factor for restoration efforts.

Working alongside NGO's schools, universities and scientific partners, we explore a range of evidence-based restoration approaches. These include shell bagging for community-driven reef building, loose shell placement in intertidal zones and experimental techniques using 3D-printed reef structures.

By focusing on oyster shells as the cornerstone of restoration, we aim to capitalise on a valuable and previously lost natural resource to rebuild reef habitats and restore ecological function.

Science & Education

Community engagement and education are central to the success of oyster reef restoration. Increasing ocean literacy helps the public understand the ecological importance of oysters and the role of reefs in coastal ecosystems, which in turn enhances the effectiveness and sustainability of restoration efforts.

We work closely with universities, research institutions and scientific partners to investigate Hong Kong’s oyster populations, evaluate restoration techniques and develop evidence-based best practices. This collaborative research underpins all our restoration work and allows us to trial innovative approaches such as 3D-printed reef structures and other experimental methods.

Through public workshops, school programmes and hands-on community activities, we provide opportunities for participants to learn about oyster ecology and marine conservation. These experiences connect people directly with the environment, fostering stewardship and long-term support for Hong Kong’s coastal ecosystems.