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BBC Science and Environment

Tests carried out on seabirds after nurdle spill

Tests are being done on dead seabirds to see how a spill of plastic nurdles affected them. The spill happened after a ship collision in the River Tyne. Scientists are checking if the birds ate the plastic and how it might harm them.

What happened

Researchers are performing necropsies on seabirds to determine if they ingested plastic nurdles from a recent spill. The spill happened when two ships collided in the River Tyne, releasing millions of plastic pellets. Scientists are looking at the birds' stomachs and other internal organs to understand the impact.

Why it matters

The spill raises concerns about how plastic pollution affects wildlife and the environment. If birds eat the nurdles, it could harm their health and disrupt the food chain. Understanding this helps in preventing similar incidents and protecting ecosystems.

Why it belongs here

The story highlights efforts to understand and address environmental damage, showing how science and community action can work together. It emphasizes the importance of monitoring wildlife and taking steps to protect nature.

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