Plastic pellets on beaches
We're asking people to report any sightings of plastic pellets known as 'nurdles' being washed up on Sunderland beaches following a vessel collision in the River Tyne on Sunday.
Council teams are monitoring the city's beaches and working closely with partner organisations, including the Environment Agency, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and Port of Tyne, to assess the situation and support efforts to remove pellets from any areas where they are identified.
The risk to public health is considered to be very low. The pellets are non-toxic but can pose a risk to wildlife and animals if ingested.
Anyone who spots any pellets on the city's beaches or the shoreline should report them at: Beach - plastic pellets - Sunderland City Council
If you do come across any pellets, please avoid handling them and keep dogs on leads.
When reporting a sighting, please include:
- The location (using what3words if possible)
- Date and time seen
- A photo where possible
- Approximate amount of pellets seen
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Image supplied by North Tyneside Council
