Frost Science Launches Field Study Testing Recycled Glass Sand for Miami-Dade Dune Restoration
On Sunday, September 27, Frost Science kicked off the second phase of its research on using glass sand at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. The aim is to see if compost and sand made from recycled glass can help restore coastal dunes. Earlier this year, the first phase showed that recycled glass helps plant growth similarly to regular beach sand, with compost especially boosting the survival of important dune species. Over four months, researchers will keep an eye on 450 sea oats to see how these materials perform in real coastal settings. This project, part of Frost Science's MUVE program, collaborates with Glass for Life, Compost for Life, and University of Miami students, backed by City of Miami District 2 Commissioner Damian Pardo.
Key facts
- Frost Science launched the second phase of its glass sand study on Sunday, September 27, at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park.
- The study tests whether compost and sand made from recycled glass can restore dunes.
- The first phase, completed in containers on the museum's roof earlier in the year, showed recycled glass can support plant growth comparably to beach sand.
- Compost showed potential to increase survival and growth of critical dune species.
- Researchers will monitor 450 sea oats over four months under real coastal conditions.
- The research is led by Frost Science's MUVE program with Glass for Life, Compost for Life, and University of Miami students.
- City of Miami District 2 Commissioner Damian Pardo provided sponsorship.
- Miami-Dade County faces waste and coastal erosion crises, with King Tides currently flooding streets.
Entities
Artists
- Damian Pardo
Institutions
- Frost Science
- MUVE program
- Glass for Life
- Compost for Life
- University of Miami
- City of Miami District 2
Locations
- Miami-Dade County
- Miami
- Florida
- United States
- Historic Virginia Key Beach Park