Can oysters save the planet?

November 18, 2024 - The interconnection between bivalves, climate science and economic development is the inspiration for this firm. After spending decades working on the theory of climate policy, we pivoted to the practice. We are seeing firsthand the profound nature-positive influence of small oyster farms on local ecosystems and economies. Waterways are cleaner, more diverse flora and fauna are thriving, and there are jobs, jobs, and more jobs.

Now we’re curious what the research says. By collating and discussing it here, can we better price in the environmental value of bivalves into business plans, public policy, even our consumer decisions?

Let’s find out! The goal is to populate this page with our desk review as we identify studies on the role of bivalves, carbon capture and climate change - and try to answer the question - can oysters save the planet?

The effects of bivalve aquaculture on carbon storage in the water column and sediment of aquaculture areas (2024)

Research from the College of Marine Science, Shanghai Ocean University and others suggests that bivalve aquaculture increases the rate of carbon burial while showing carbon sink potential.

Oyster reefs as carbon sources and sinks (2017)

Research from the University of North Carolina highlights how shellfish reefs contain significant pools of carbon due to the by-product release of carbonate shell production, shellfish, like oysters, clams, and mussels, also facilitate carbon burial by filtering and depositing carbon down into the ocean floor. Shallow subtidal reefs and saltmarsh-fringing reefs showed to be net carbon sinks. It comes to the conclusion that reefs could be considered part of climate mitigation efforts in coastal zones.

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