What are "nurdles" and how do they impact the environment?

Nurdles are tiny plastic pellets that are produced by petrochemical companies and used to make various products. When these pellets spill in large quantities, they can pollute landscapes, harm marine life, and disrupt tourism and fishing.

How is the European Union addressing the issue of nurdle pollution?

The European Parliament is currently considering new regulations that would require companies in the EU to adopt safeguards in handling and transporting nurdles, in an effort to prevent disastrous spills and reduce their environmental impact.

What challenges do cleanup crews face when dealing with nurdle spills?

Recovering nurdles is a physically intense and time-consuming task, mostly done by hand. Experts warn that it is virtually impossible to recover all the pellets once they have been scattered in nature.

Home / Environment / Tiny Plastic Pellets Pollute Landscapes Worldwide, Posing Cleanup Challenge

Tiny Plastic Pellets Pollute Landscapes Worldwide, Posing Cleanup Challenge

10 Nov, 2025

•

Summary

Nurdles, tiny plastic pellets, spill in massive quantities, blighting landscapes
Recovering nurdles is a physically intense and time-consuming task, mostly done by hand
Nurdle spills harm marine life, tourism, and fishing

Tiny Plastic Pellets Pollute Landscapes Worldwide, Posing Cleanup Challenge

As of November 10th, 2025, the issue of tiny plastic pellets, known as "nurdles," polluting landscapes worldwide has become a growing concern. These pellets, no bigger than a lentil, are produced by petrochemical giants and destined to be melted down for various products. However, when tens of millions of them spill from trucks or cargo ships, they are incredibly difficult to clean up, blighting landscapes and washing up around the world for years to come.