What toxic metals were found on the Sussex coast plastic pellets?

Heavy metals including lead, arsenic, cadmium, antimony, barium, rubidium, strontium, and thorium were found on the plastic pellets.

Where did the toxic plastic pellets on the Sussex coast come from?

The pellets are believed to have spilled from a Southern Water wastewater treatment works in Eastbourne.

How do the toxic metals on beach pellets affect wildlife?

Ingestion by birds or fish could expose them to toxic heavy metals, potentially impacting their nervous systems and overall health.

Home / Environment / Toxic Metals Found on Beach Pellets

Toxic Metals Found on Beach Pellets

11 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Heavy metals like lead and arsenic found on millions of plastic pellets on Sussex coast.
Plastic beads potentially toxic to wildlife if ingested by birds or fish.
Spill originated from a Southern Water wastewater treatment works in Eastbourne.

Plastic pellets laden with heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium have been discovered in vast numbers along the Sussex and Kent coastlines. Scientists from King's College London analyzed 200 bio-beads collected from Camber Sands, revealing the presence of antimony, barium, lead, rubidium, strontium, cadmium, thorium, and arsenic. While not classified as hazardous waste, these levels are concerning for local wildlife.

Experts warn that if birds consume these pellets or ingest fish that have eaten them, the heavy metals could prove toxic, potentially harming the animals' nervous systems. This contamination risk, particularly for protected areas like Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, has spurred intensive cleanup efforts involving volunteers and conservation groups. The beads' size and buoyancy increase the likelihood of them being mistaken for food by wildlife.