Innovative concrete mix combats urban floods using seashell waste

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.

Related EHN coverage:

• The Ohio River community of Newport bands together to slow runoff and add greenspace
• Op-ed: Flood survivors find common ground in a divided nation
• Op-ed: Embracing rainwater through green infrastructure