What are Nurdles?
On May 27, 2025, large quantities of tiny plastic pellets, known as nurdles, were discovered along the coast of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. This incident follows the sinking of the MSC ELSA 3, which occurred on May 25, 2025. The vessel sank carrying numerous containers, some of which contained hazardous materials. The presence of nurdles has raised alarm about marine pollution and its impact on local ecosystems.
What Are Nurdles?
Nurdles are small pre-formed plastic pellets used as raw material in the production of various plastic products. Defined by the International Organisation for Standardisation, these pellets typically measure between 1 to 5 millimetres in diameter. They are primarily made of polyethene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride. Nurdles are considered primary microplastics due to their intentional production in small sizes.
Environmental Impact of Nurdles
Nurdles pose threats to marine life. Their small size allows them to be ingested by fish, seabirds, and other wildlife, leading to health issues such as intestinal blockages. Each year, an estimated 230,000 tonnes of nurdles are released into oceans globally. This pollution not only harms marine animals but also jeopardises coastal communities that depend on fishing and tourism.
Incidents of Nurdle Spills
Nurdle spills have gained notoriety due to several incidents worldwide. Notable spills include the 2012 Hong Kong incident, where Typhoon Vicente caused widespread contamination. In 2017, a spill at Durban Port released 49 tonnes of nurdles into the Indian Ocean. Each incident resulted in severe ecological damage and brought into light the risks associated with plastic transport.
Composition and Recycling Challenges
The nurdles found in Kerala are primarily made from Low-Density Polyethene (LDPE) and High-Density Polyethene (HDPE). These plastics are widely used in everyday products. However, recycling LDPE is particularly challenging, complicating efforts to manage plastic waste effectively.
Cleanup and Prevention Strategies
Experts recommend several strategies for addressing nurdle pollution. Manual beach cleanups are effective but labour-intensive. Floating booms and nets can contain nurdles at spill sites. Improved packaging methods, including secure container transport and rapid response protocols, are essential for preventing future spills. Regulatory measures must also be enforced to ensure timely reporting of nurdle incidents.
Ongoing Risks and Future Concerns
The recent nurdle discovery in Kerala puts stress on the persistent threat of plastic waste in marine ecosystems. As global plastic production continues to rise, the challenge of preventing and cleaning up spills remains critical. Environmentalists and policymakers are particularly concerned about the impact on regions rich in biodiversity, such as the southern coast of Kerala.
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