Millions of Microplastics Found – Politicians and Media Respond
On March 3, 2022, revealing research came to light, based on information from a whistleblower. The report showed that the Western Scheldt is severely polluted with millions of nurdles – tiny plastic pellets that serve as raw material for plastic products.
Political Consequences
In response to the findings, D66 and SGP submitted parliamentary questions. Additionally, D66 and the Party for the Animals submitted two motions, both of which were adopted.
What are Nurdles?
Nurdles are small plastic pellets that are widely used in the plastics industry. In the EU alone, an estimated 23 billion end up in the environment every day. This often invisible pollution is deadly for marine life and poses a silent threat to human health.
Attention at Home and Abroad
The report received extensive media coverage: Nieuwsuur dedicated a segment to it, and it was also reported on in Belgium and the United Kingdom. The societal and political impact was significant.
What Now?
The pollution caused by nurdles remains an important point of attention. Various organizations and research institutions are further mapping this issue and calling on involved parties to take responsibility.