Our shell recycling program

Person Carrying Bucket

Photo by Cory Silken

Oyster naturally grow in reef formation. Baby oysters - called spat - float through the water looking for oyster shells to attach to. By seeding oyster shell we create a favorable environment for oyster reefs to grow. Thankfully, oyster shell recycled from restaurants is a perfect base for oyster reefs. Since 2021, Massachusetts Oyster Project has worked with restaurants across Cape Cod to recycle their shell. We treat the shell for a year and then plant them at locations across Cape Cod. This does more than help grow oysters. It also keeps trash out of landfills. These shells stay out of the dump and instead find a new life rebuilding our beaches and shores.

Public drop-off locations

For the first time, we have 24/7 shell recycling locations where anyone can drop off their personal oyster shell. Check out our shell recycling guidelines and then give your oyster shells a second life at:

  • Englewood Boat Ramp, 26 New Hampshire Ave, West Yarmouth, MA 02673

  • Wilbur Park, 440 Highbank Rd, South Yarmouth, MA 02664

Partner restaurants

Visit one of our supporting restaurants and enjoy oysters knowing that the shells will be heading to our restauration program.

Support the program

Individual donations make up a big portion of our funding. Become a recurring donor to support oyster shell pickup and help us grow the program.

Recycle at your restaurant or event

We have some geographic limitations but we will work with you as best we can. Not sure if shell recycling works for you? Reach out.

Recycling your personal oyster shell

We aren’t the only ones recycling oyster shell. Groups across the Commonwealth are running their own recycling programs. Check out of one of these local shell-recycling programs.

Why recycle?

Recycling oyster shells reduces the amount of oyster shells that end up in landfills while also building the base - literally - of coastal restoration efforts. Find out more about how oyster shells contribute to our coastal ecosystem.