Restoring Australia's Shellfish Reefs from Recycled Oyster Shells

The Nature Conservancy, Australia's Shellfish Reef Rebuilding Program, has restored 62 hectares of oyster and mussel reef habitat across 21 sites since 2015 by placing recycled shells—roughly 150,000 wheelbarrows sourced from aquaculture and restaurants—on the seafloor. As of December 2025, the initiative has generated over 425 jobs and is projected to deliver AUD $14 million annually in economic benefits while improving water quality and fish nurseries.

Over 90 percent of Australia's shellfish reefs were destroyed by harvesting, pollution, and coastal development; restoration sites are protected as no-harvest habitat to prioritize ecological recovery over commercial use.