Southern Rail is dialling up its commitment to protecting local nature with renewed support for charity Blue Marine Foundation, and an even bigger investment, in restoring oyster reefs along the South Coast.
Last year, Southern and its parent company Govia Thameslink Railway supported research into the regeneration of kelp habitats between Selsey and Shoreham-by-Sea [read press release here]. A case study just published reveals the remarkable diversity observed in the zone now protected from fishing trawlers - an astonishing 92 different species have been identified.
This year, instead of 'help the kelp', Southern is giving a 'bolster to the oyster', as its environment team helps create around 417 square metres of new oyster reefs off the south coast in Chichester Harbour, as part of the Solent Oyster Restoration Project.
A critically endangered native species, which is a crucial part of our coastal ecosystem, the project is a huge win for coastal wildlife, as oysters naturally filter seawater, improve water quality and build mini underwater cities that shelter fish, plants and other marine life.
More oysters mean cleaner seas and thriving ecosystems – and these reefs have seen a 95% decline across the UK due to over-fishing, disease, and pollution.
Jason Brooker, Southern and GTR’s Head of Environment and Sustainability, said: “Healthy seas are vital for a thriving environment, and supporting oyster reef restoration in the Solent is a great example of how partnerships can help rebuild biodiversity.
“As a railway serving many communities along the South Coast, it’s important we play our part in protecting and restoring the habitats that make these places special. Supporting projects like this also gives our colleagues the chance to get involved and see the impact first-hand.”
Xanthe Caldecott, GreenTheUK’s Managing Director and co-founder, said: “Partnerships like this with Southern Rail show how businesses can play a direct role in restoring nature. By supporting oyster reef recovery, we’re not only helping rebuild marine ecosystems, but also demonstrating how local, measurable action can drive real impact for biodiversity."
Dr Luke Helmer, Blue Marine Foundation’s Restoration Science Manager, said: “Oyster reef habitat was once critical to the health of our coastal environment. If we want to live in clean, healthy areas then we have no choice, we must restore the natural environment that has been lost. This reef marks a real landmark and a shift to larger-scale restoration, hopefully paving the way for others across Europe.
“We can get the work done on the ground and have an army of volunteers to support us, but businesses and corporates have their role to play as well so it is good to see this kind of support coming though.”
