The Green Ocean Oyster Re-introduction Project in Dublin Bay, launched in November 2023, is a marine restoration initiative which is restoring native oysters to Dublin Bay. Oysters are natural “climate champions”, improving water quality and marine biodiversity.
Using innovative “oyster gardening” techniques, oysters are suspended in baskets from marina walkways at multiple locations around Dublin Bay. These oysters naturally filter the water, helping to reduce excess nutrients and pollutants. Their presence also supports biodiversity by encouraging the growth of seagrass and seaweed, which provide vital spawning grounds for fish and their predators as well as being a important carbon sink by sequestering carbon.
Following the successful completion of phase 1, which saw strong oyster growth and reproduction, over the past year, the project is entering phase 2 in October 2024. This phase is expanding the initiative to 120 oyster baskets across six locations in the Bay.
With Oyster Gardens already established in Dun Laoghaire, Malahide and Poolbeg marinas, the next phase will see the addition of Howth Yacht Club, The Royal St George Yacht Club and The National Yacht Club as the three new hosts to a combined 60 oyster gardens containing 900 native oysters. Annually it is expected that 1.3 billion litres of water will be filtered through the 120 oyster gardens located across the bay, removing nitrates and algae. The project also supports research by students from University College Dublin and Trinity College Dublin who monitor the oyster restoration locations in Dublin Bay and track biodiversity improvements.
David Lawlor who leads the Green Ocean Project says, “Reaching this stage of the project marks a significant milestone in proving that oysters can successfully survive and reproduce in the waters of Dublin Bay. We are now looking ahead with great optimism to expanding the initiative this year and beyond. Our goal is to establish a self-sustaining broodstock of native oysters in Dublin Bay, which will not only enhance biodiversity but also contribute to the development of oyster and seaweed reefs, supporting the recovery of fish stocks and the expansion of seagrass beds which are important in capturing carbon from the atmosphere.”
Green Ocean also engages volunteers in hands-on restoration activities, such as maintaining oyster baskets and monitoring oyster health. These volunteer opportunities provide education and awareness about the importance of marine conservation, while allowing individuals to contribute directly to environmental restoration efforts.
Green Ocean welcomes interest from businesses and communities who would like to get involved and offer sponsorship and support.
For further information
David Lawlor
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