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Muss-Tell

Reducing noise pollution to protect native freshwater mussels.

Submerged Shell-ter protecting native mussel — © Pascal Schonlau

Muss-Tell explores reducing underwater noise pollution to protect native freshwater mussels in Kent, UK. Using invasive mussel shells for an acoustic dome, the project combines design research and collaboration with scientists to mitigate noise and raise awareness of these overlooked species.

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.

About Damla Ertem

Damla Ertem, MA in Material Futures from Central Saint Martins, is a material designer and researcher working at the intersection of regenerative design, ecological systems, and material innovation. Her projects transform biowaste into technological solutions, exploring system-level strategies for sustainability, social impact, and environmental regeneration. Swarovski Foundation awardee, her work merges research, experimentation, and collaborative design.

Muss-Tell Project Cover Picture — © Christine Lin

Shell-ter with invasive mussel shells — © Damla Ertem

Data and field research in River Medway, Kent UK — © Christine Lin

Native freshwater mussel — © Christine Lin

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