Oyster Shell Recycling.
Our Oyster Shell Recycling Initiative is a coastal sustainability effort that blends ecology, creativity, and circular design. Each year, millions of oyster shells are discarded as waste—but these natural materials hold the power to restore ecosystems, spark artistic expression, and reduce our reliance on extractive resources.
At SALTIE, we collect discarded shells from local restaurants, events, and community partners, keeping them out of landfills and giving them new life. After cleaning and curing, these shells are reimagined in multiple ways:
Marine Restoration: Many shells are returned to coastal waters where they form the foundation of new reef structures. These living shorelines serve as natural water filters, create critical habitat for marine life, and buffer communities against erosion and storm surge.
Functional Reuse: Some shells are ground into gravel and used as a sustainable alternative to quarried stone—lining walkways, driveways, and parking areas with character and intention.
Creative Reclamation: Partnering with local artists and makers, we repurpose shells into sculptural installations, educational exhibits, and design materials that celebrate coastal heritage and inspire environmental stewardship.
By working at the intersection of waste reduction, habitat restoration, and creative reuse, the Oyster Shell Recycling Initiative embodies our belief that what’s cast off can become a catalyst—for regeneration, resilience, and beauty.
Interested in getting involved? We're always looking for restaurant partners, volunteers, and collaborators to help scale the impact of this work.
