Oysters: you either love them or hate them!
While they’re definitely an acquired taste, there’s much more to these weird little creatures than you might realise.
They’re actually incredible helpers in keeping our waterways clean and healthy. And our employer partner, Unitywater, are here to share exactly how they’ve been utilising this little discovery.
Oysters: The Superheroes of Clean Waterways?
Introducing Unitywater, a leading organisation dedicated to exploring innovative solutions for water management.
They’ve teamed up with the University of the Sunshine Coast, Healthy Land and Water, and OzFish Unlimited to embark on a groundbreaking research project focused on oyster reef restoration.
The project is the first of its kind in Australia and aims to uncover oysters’ true potential and effectiveness in improving water quality.
How cool is that?!
So, Where Exactly Will this Project Take Place?
Unitywater will focus on the Pine River, located just downstream of their Murrumba Downs Wastewater Treatment Plant.
By restoring shellfish reefs in this area, they can test how oysters can help offset the nutrients present after the wastewater treatment process.
Daniel Lambert, the Executive Manager of Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions at Unitywater, explained that oysters can absorb nitrogen, thus improving water quality.
“Many of us enjoy eating oysters, but what is less known is that they are brilliant little creatures that can ‘clean’ waterways and improve water quality by absorbing nitrogen,” Daniel said. “This research is going to be very exciting; it will open up opportunities for more restoration and has the potential to look at shellfish reef restoration as an offset for the industry.”
Making a Splash With a Real Team Effort
Unitywater isn’t alone in this venture!
They’ve joined forces with the University of the Sunshine Coast, OzFish Unlimited, and Healthy Land and Water to make this project a reality. These organisations are all passionate about nature-based solutions and preserving our environment. Together, they’re on a mission to enhance water quality and promote biodiversity in South East Queensland.
Abbie Taylor, the Senior Project Manager for South East Queensland at OzFish Unlimited, is excited to see the impact of this research as more shellfish reefs are rebuilt around Queensland.
“This research is going to be very exciting; it will open up opportunities for more restoration and has the potential to look at shellfish reef restoration as an offset for industry,” Abbie says. “It will paint a bigger picture about how important shellfish reefs are to our ecosystem and give real data to showcase their work in filtering nutrients.”
This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration and the commitment to a sustainable future. By working together, Unitywater and its partners aim to achieve their sustainability goals and shape the future of water and wastewater services in our communities.
What’s Next?
Stay tuned for updates on this groundbreaking project as we continue to explore the potential of our humble oyster friends!
If you’re interested in the environment or water management or just want to learn more about how oysters can make a difference, make sure to follow the progress of this exciting initiative. The future of our waterways depends on innovative projects like these, and who knows? You might be inspired to become a champion for clean and sustainable water too!
Head to Unitywater’s dedicated employer profile to see what other innovative projects they’re up to and the excellent variety of roles available in the industry!
Together, we can create a world where nature and innovation go hand in hand, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
