What is the Green Ocean Foundation doing in Dublin Bay?

The Green Ocean Foundation is reintroducing European flat oysters to Dublin Bay to restore oyster reefs.

Why are oysters considered climate heroes in Dublin?

Oysters filter large amounts of water daily, helping to improve water quality and support seagrass, a carbon sink.

How long have oyster reefs been absent from Dublin Bay?

Oyster reefs were wiped out in the 1800s due to overfishing and pollution, making their absence over two centuries long.

Home / Environment / Irish Oysters Return to Restore Dublin Bay Reefs

Irish Oysters Return to Restore Dublin Bay Reefs

18 Jan

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Summary

18,000 oysters were released into Dún Laoghaire harbor to restore reefs.
These oysters act as 'climate heroes' by filtering 190 liters of water daily.
The project aims to re-establish oyster reefs, absent for over two centuries.

Irish Oysters Return to Restore Dublin Bay Reefs

European flat oysters, once thriving in Irish waters for millennia, are being reintroduced to Dublin Bay in a pioneering restoration effort. Over 18,000 adult oysters were released into Dún Laoghaire harbor, aiming to re-establish reefs that were wiped out by overfishing and pollution in the 1800s. This initiative, driven by the Green Ocean Foundation, seeks to recreate habitats that support numerous marine species and vital ecosystem services.

These oysters are recognized as 'climate heroes' due to their natural filtering capabilities, processing up to 190 liters of seawater per day. By consuming plankton and nitrates, they help clear algae, allowing sunlight to reach the seafloor, which in turn boosts seagrass growth—a crucial carbon sink. This process significantly improves coastal biodiversity and marine habitats.

Similar projects are underway across Europe, inspired by initiatives like New York's Billion Oyster Project. Scientists from Dublin City University are monitoring the oysters' impact. This phased approach, starting with pilot projects and careful observation, aims for sustainable reef restoration, marking a significant step in Dublin Bay's ecological recovery.