The Nature Conservancy Australia (TNC) and B-Alternative are thrilled to announce the expansion of the shell-recycling program Shuck Don't Chuck. Aimed at reducing waste and restoring marine habitats, Shuck Don't Chuck will now operate along the stunning coastline of Torquay, Geelong, and the Bellarine Peninsula.
The initiative invites local restaurants and seafood venues to recycle used oyster, mussel, and scallop shells. These shells will be collected and repurposed for TNC's vital shellfish reef restoration projects in Port Phillip Bay, contributing to the health of marine ecosystems while decreasing landfill waste.
Launched in 2015, Shuck Don't Chuck has seen tremendous success, with over 50 participating venues contributing to the collection of thousands of kilograms of shells. This initiative has not only fostered a community of environmentally conscious businesses but has also supported the restoration of significant marine habitats, enhancing biodiversity in the region. To date, the partnership has contributed to the restoration of nearly 12 hectares of shellfish reefs across 4 locations, using over 825 tonnes of recycled shells.
Andy Bossie, Seascapes Conservation Officer for TNC, is excited to be managing projects that bring the shell full circle.
"More and more we aim to use recycled shell in our projects. They play a great role in the restoration process, either as a foundation for the reef or as a support for young shellfish to grow on before forming reef structures," Mr Bossie said.
Isabelle Pearl Love-Dack from Finns Oyster Bar, expressed her enthusiasm. "We are so excited to be part of Shuck Don't Chuck. Every single shell from our events has been saved from the start to go towards this shell recycling and reef restoration initiative. Using shell waste to regenerate our lost reefs not only supports the environment we rely on, but also promotes sustainability within our community," Ms Pearl-Dack said.
Graeme Jefferies from Samesyn echoed these sentiments. "Shuck Don't Chuck is a fantastic initiative that allows us to give back to the environment. It's a win-win for businesses and marine biodiversity alike. We can't wait to see the positive impact it will have on our waters," Mr Jefferies said.
Martin Webster, from The Walrus in Melbourne, noted that Shuck Don't Chuck exemplifies how collaboration can lead to meaningful change. "By participating, we are not just reducing waste, we are actively participating in restoring vital habitats for marine life. We're proud to be long-term supporters of this initiative," he said.
Collection services will be available to participating venues every Monday in Melbourne and Tuesdays around Torquay, Geelong and the Bellarine.
The program supports TNC's ambition to restore 60 shellfish reefs by 2030, which will equate to 30% of this ecosystem. Shellfish reefs are one of the world's most degraded ecosystems.
