A new type of permeable concrete made from discarded shellfish is helping to reduce flooding in Blackpool, England, by absorbing excess water in urban areas.
Ayurella Horn-Muller reports for Grist.
In short:
- The concrete, created by researchers at the University of Central Lancashire, uses crushed seashells to enhance water absorption and reduce stormwater runoff.
- It’s being tested in gardens and cycling paths, providing both flood protection and a sustainable use for shellfish waste.
- This approach addresses both climate-related flooding and the environmental impact of food and construction waste.
Key quote:
“They’re not so obvious at first… but as you walk on it, the shells become more apparent as you go, and little flecks of white start coming out.”
— Helen Jones, operations director at LeftCoast
Why this matters:
As climate change increases flood risks, innovative materials like shellfish concrete offer a sustainable solution that also reduces waste in construction and food industries.
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