Scientists have warned that high river flows this autumn could flush 2.2 tonnes of microplastic pellets, known as nurdles, downstream in the River Tyne. The nurdles were spilled into the river in July following a collision between two vessels at the Port of Tyne, which damaged shipping containers.
New modelling from Newcastle University indicates that approximately one in eight of the nurdles remained in the estuary six weeks after the incident. Dr Matt Perks, project lead, noted that low river flows since July have meant deposited pellets have had little movement. He stated that elevated river flows are likely to flush some of this material downstream, urging consideration of interception measures.
A temporary barrier was deployed around the spill source three days after the July incident. Weeks later, microplastics were observed over 30 miles south of the source. Port of Tyne has confirmed it is responsible for daily monitoring and collection, with its environmental response partner, Ambipar, providing specialist recovery support around the spring tides on 28 October and 9 November.
Stuart Wright, Director of Place Strategy at South Tyneside Council, said the multi-agency response group is "preparing" for the "additional movement of nurdles," adding that this is not unexpected and plans are in place.