A new spring tide between 14-18 August is expected to bring a fresh wave of nurdles onto beaches. Organisers are urging clean-up volunteers to prioritise these days. Here’s how you can get involved.
What are nurdles?
Nurdles are small plastic pellets, typically around 1–5mm in size, which are used in the manufacture of plastic products. While the pellets are not toxic, they can pose a risk to wildlife and other animals if ingested.
With more nurdles expected to reach local beaches over the coming days, volunteers can play an important role in helping to remove them from the coastline.
How can you get involved?
There are a number of ways to support local clean-up efforts. The Nurdle Hub NE has information on beach cleans, equipment locations, collection points, and tips for safely collecting nurdles. Visit the Nurdle Hub website and click ‘Find a Beach Clean’ to see where volunteers are currently cleaning nearby – Beaches · Nurdle Hub NE
For organisations looking to organise their own volunteer clean-up, Port of Blyth recently organised two clean-up mornings at Blyth Beach and Cambois Beach, bringing together around 50 volunteers at each event, including Port staff, Energy Central partners, and members of the local community. More than 5kg of nurdles were collected across the two mornings.
The Port promoted the events through email and social media, completed a risk assessment and provided buckets and mesh bags, along with gloves and high-visibility vests for volunteers to use. Free hot drinks were also provided, helping to keep volunteers fueled throughout the mornings.
Making it easy for people to participate was key. Clear meeting points, basic equipment, and regular communication helped encourage participation, while simple touches such as refreshments helped create a welcoming experience for volunteers.
Where can collected nurdles go?
Port of Blyth has installed designated nurdle collection points at both its South Harbour and Battleship Wharf terminal gatehouses, providing a dedicated location for members of the public to dispose of collected nurdles, helping to keep them separate from general waste.
Northumberland County Council has also installed a number of drop-off points in affected areas. Full details can be found on their website.
Clean-up safely
If you’re planning to organise or take part in a nurdle clean-up, it’s important to follow the latest advice and guidance.
For the latest information, please visit Northumberland County Council’s website: https://www.northumberland.gov.uk/news/plastic-pellets-nurdles-countys-beaches-updated-august-3rd?utm_source=chatgpt.com.
Every helping hand makes a difference
The response to the Port’s volunteer clean-ups showed what can be achieved when people come together around a shared goal.
With another wave of nurdles expected over the coming days, now is a great time to get involved and help keep our local beaches clean.
