Crisp and Chip Production Waste Utilized in Salt Marsh Regeneration

Byproducts from the manufacturing of crisps and chips are being employed to safeguard and restore susceptible salt marsh ecosystems. Environmental conservationists are deploying structures composed of potato starch grids, in conjunction with ropes and willow, to foster the growth of vegetation adapted to salt marsh environments. According to the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, 85% of England’s salt marshes have disappeared since 1860. In Lancashire, these habitats are situated at Hest Bank, Bolton-le-Sands, and Jenny Brown’s Point. Beyond their role in mitigating local flooding, salt marshes offer distinct habitats for avian species, fish, and certain rare plant varieties. The Our Future Coast project is spearheaded by Wyre Council, overseen by Lancaster City Council, and receives support from the environmental organization the Morecambe Bay Partnership. Joseph Earl, representing the Morecambe Bay Partnership, stated that the newly introduced grids “essentially try to trap sediment and encourage growth.” Mr. Earl further explained that the grids are environmentally sound because “the crucial thing is that they will biodegrade over a long period of time.” Mr. Earl remarked: “Salt marshes help to absorb wave energy, they help to reduce the risk of flooding and storms, so the bigger picture is to try and restore the marsh and allow that safety net to re-establish.” These grids, produced in the Netherlands by BESE, have demonstrated successful application in Australia and the United States. Eleanor Brown, project manager for Lancaster City Council, commented: “Success in the short term is that the BESE grids end up being covered in sediment, at which point they will biodegrade.” She added: “That will be enough for colonising plants to take hold and start to grow.” For further content, listeners can access BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and engage with BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story submissions can also be directed to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk or via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding their policy on external linking is available.