Global metal recycler continues to support the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana to regrow the state’s biodiversity-rich oyster reefs.
A project that sustainably re-uses oyster shells to restore Louisiana's oyster reefs – and slow coastal erosion – is being supported by EMR USA - part of EMR, a global leader in sustainable materials.
The company has revealed its plans as part of a longstanding commitment to donate funds, employee time and its own resources to projects which support local communities and the biodiversity in Louisiana and the wider Gulf Coast region.
The Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL) established its Oyster Shell Recycling Program in 2014 to keep shells out of landfills, slow coastal land loss and restore Plaquemines reefs. They collect the shells from New Orleans restaurants to restore oyster reefs and shoreline habitat in Coastal Louisiana. This program has become one of the largest shell recycling programs in the nation. As of January 2020, CRCL has collected over 10 million pounds of shells from 31 local restaurants and uses them to restore oyster reefs that help protect Louisiana’s eroding coastline.
Louisiana’s coastal land loss is having dramatic effects on the nation’s energy, navigation and fisheries interests. It’s also devastating to the communities of South Louisiana and the families who have lived there for generations. CRCL says it works at the local, state and federal levels to ensure that restoring and protecting coastal Louisiana are top priorities for political leaders at all levels.
EMR USA, has supported the Program since 2021, by donating $21,000.00 along with 170 hours of staff volunteering.
Tony Schultz, ESG Manager at EMR USA, said:
“The people of Louisiana know just how destructive coastal erosion and our changing climate can be.
“As a business rooted in the neighbourhoods where we operate, EMR USA is committed to doing everything we can to protect the great state of Louisiana and the communities and natural resources that call it home.
“The Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana’s Oyster Shell Recycling Program is a simple but effective way to do exactly that and I’ll be incredibly proud to see our teams out helping to build new oyster reefs, safeguarding our coastline and providing an essential boost to the biodiversity of our region.”
Ashley Trosclair, Legal & Claims Coordinator at EMR USA, who has been heavily involved in supporting the Program describes donating her time volunteering:
“Being able to collect the donated oyster shells and transporting them by boat to Bay Adam, where a Grand Bayou Indian Village was once located, was astonishing. The reef we have helped to build will protect this sensitive heritage site from further erosion.
“EMR USA has 10 sites located in Louisiana and it’s amazing to work for a company that gives back to the community and helps this region with major environmental concerns such as coastal erosion.”
