Global Plastic Spill: Billions of Raw Plastic Pellets Swamp Ecosystems

Billions of raw plastic pellets, known as "nurdles," are leaking into the environment at every stage of their handling. A new report reveals that these tiny pieces are a major source of pollution worldwide. Nurdles serve as a raw material for manufacturing almost all plastic products. Their small size and widespread transport make them prone to spilling during production, loading, and shipping. Once in the environment, nurdles are extremely difficult to remove. They persist for centuries and are often mistaken for food by marine animals and birds. The report calls for stricter handling rules and new international regulations to address this growing problem.