Alabama Oyster Shell Recycling Program has collected nearly 24M shells since 2016. Here is why it matters.

Here is something to celebrate the next time you shuck an oyster on the Alabama Coast. 

By the end of July, the Alabama Oyster Shell Recycling Program will have collected over 24 million oyster shells since the program’s inception in 2016.

Why oyster shell recycling matters

A project of the Alabama Coastal Foundation, recycling oyster shells not only saves landfill space but more importantly helps build natural habitats, rebuild reefs and bring back oysters. 

The shells can also repair damaged marshes, shorelines and coastal ecosystems.

Despite their small size, oysters have a huge impact on our environment. An adult oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day, providing habitat for shellfish, fish, crabs and shrimp. 

“This is a fun and delicious way to help Alabama’s coastal environment. We thank all of the restaurants for participating and for all of the patrons who provide the much-needed support.”

Mark Berte, Executive Director, Alabama Coastal Foundation.

How can you recycle oyster shells?

Want to support coastal ecosystems while enjoying oysters at your favorite restaurant?

Below are the participating Alabama Oyster Shell Recycling participants.

• ACME Oyster House
• Bayside Grill @ The Grand Hotel
• Bluegill Restaurant 
• Cobalt, The Restaurant 
• Felix’s Fish Camp Restaurant
• Flora-Bama Lounge
• Flora-Bama Ole River Bar
• Flora-Bama Yacht Club
• Grand Weddings @ the Grand Hotel
• Half Shell Oyster House, Mobile
• Original Oyster House, Causeway
• Original Oyster House, Gulf Shores
• Sea-N-Suds Restaurant
• Southern Roots @ The Grand Hotel
• Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores
• The Lodge at Gulf State Park
• Tin Top Restaurant and Oyster Bar
• Wintzell’s, Downtown Mobile

Meet the Alabama Coastal Foundation

If you are interested in learning more about the oyster shell recycling program join the Alabama Coastal Foundation this Thursday at their free Connect to Your Coast event at Fairhope Brewing Company. Supporters are welcome to visit between 1:00PM to 4:00PM to learn more about how to help Alabama’s coastal environment.

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