Green Ocean Oyster Re-Introduction Project Expands to Greystones Marina

A new environmental project designed to restore native oyster habitats along the Wicklow coastline, has been launched

The Green Ocean Foundation’s oyster reintroduction project has expanded to Greystones Harbour Marina , more than two years after its successful launch in Dublin Bay.

The initiative aims to restore native oyster habitats along the Dublin Bay and Wicklow coast, bringing back an important species that plays a key role in healthy coastal ecosystems.

Native Oysters: Nature’s Climate Champions

Native oysters are powerful “climate champions.” Each oyster can filter up to 190 litres of water per day, removing excess nutrients and pollutants, improving water quality, and promoting the growth of seagrass and seaweed.

As these oyster populations thrive, they also:

• Support marine biodiversity by creating habitats for fish and invertebrates
• Provide spawning and nursery grounds for a variety of marine species
• Act as carbon sinks, capturing and storing carbon in coastal ecosystems

Innovative “Oyster Gardening”

Using oyster gardening techniques, the project suspends oysters in baskets from marina walkways at multiple locations across Dublin Bay. This hands-on approach allows both scientists and volunteers to monitor oyster health and growth closely.

The success of the project in Dún Laoghaire, Malahide, Poolbeg marinas, and Howth Yacht Club has paved the way for its expansion to Greystones.

Pilot Phase in Greystones

The pilot phase at Greystones Harbour aims to assess whether native oysters can survive, grow, and reproduce along the Wicklow coast, an area historically rich in oyster populations.

Aoibheann Boyle, who leads the project in Greystones, said:

“Building on the success of our work in Dublin Bay, this next phase brings together local partners, volunteers, and researchers to learn, adapt, and build the foundations for self-sustaining oyster populations that can improve water quality, support marine biodiversity, and help deliver healthier seas for generations to come.”

Science and Community Working Hand in Hand

The project works closely with the DCU Water Unit, under Professor Fiona Regan, to monitor oyster health, water quality, and biodiversity changes across restoration sites.

Green Ocean emphasizes community engagement, encouraging volunteers to:

• Maintain oyster baskets
• Monitor oyster health
• Participate in hands-on marine conservation activities

These efforts not only support research but also educate the public and raise awareness about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.

Local Support and Partnerships

The expansion of the project has been made possible thanks to the support of:

• Greystones Harbour Marina
• Wicklow County Council
• Financial backing from Codling Wind Park

Local residents, including Ann Boyle, Megan O'Brien, Niamh O'Mahony, and Tom O'Mahony, have welcomed the arrival of native oysters at the harbour, celebrating a significant step in restoring the area’s marine environment.

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