Reducing noise pollution to protect native freshwater mussels.
Muss-Tell is a circular, bioregional design system that aims to reduce noise-induced stress by repurposing the shell waste of invasive mussels into biodegradable acoustic shelters for native freshwater mussels. Developed response to the layered impacts of climate change and increasing noise pollution in the UK's River Medway, Muss-Tell explores how anthropogenic sound contributes to ecological stress, disrupting the natural filtration rates of native mussel populations. By collaborating with local initiatives, researchers and restaurants, the project proposes a regenerative adaptable system where invasive mussels' shell waste becomes material for regeneration.
Muss-Tell highlights mussels as vital bio-indicators and natural water filters, whose shells hold environmental memory - providing valuable insights into ecosystem health without the need for advanced technology.
