Discarded bodyboards collected at Devon's Household Waste Recycling Centres are being repurposed by the Environment Agency. The boards are now used in surveys on intertidal mudflats, where they provide a stable surface for transporting equipment and navigating difficult terrain.
Paul Elsmere, environmental monitoring officer at the Environment Agency, said: "The repurposed boards provide a perfect stable surface for researchers to rest on, transport equipment and help manoeuvre through challenging conditions.
"Thinking of the environment, we approached Devon County Council's HWRC operator SUEZ to see if they could help with any discarded boards.
"We've shared details with other Environment Agency teams who hope to do the same for the work they are carrying out."
Seagrass meadows are among the UK's most valuable coastal habitats. They offer shelter, breeding grounds and feeding areas for marine species, and help stabilise seabed sediments and reduce coastal erosion. Monitoring these areas improves understanding of the health of Devon's estuaries and supports long-term conservation efforts.
Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, cabinet member for climate change, environment and transport at Devon County Council, said: "Seagrass meadows are a vital part of Devon's coastal environment, which is why this monitoring work is so important.
"By working together, we've found a simple way to reduce waste and keep costs down while supporting research that will help protect these habitats for years to come.
"It's a brilliant example of the circular economy in action."
The scheme is a collaboration between Devon County Council, its HWRC contractor SUEZ and the Environment Agency. It shows how reuse projects can cut waste while supporting conservation.
More information about Devon's HWRCs and reusable items is available at devon.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling. Details about seagrass habitats and their environmental benefits can be found on the Environment Agency website.
Bodyboards Repurposed for Devon Coastal Surveys