New study has discovered fibreglass particles in oysters and mussels leading to worries over environmental and health implications.
Microplastics in the marine environment have been a big subject in environmental news of late. There are trillions of bits of plastic particles floating about our oceans and many of the marine creatures we humans eat are contaminated with microplastics. These plastics are then transferred to us and the health consequences are becoming increasingly clear with microplastics having already been discovered in breast milk and testes.
Now though, to add to our list of marine pollution worries, scientists have discovered fibreglass in shellfish.
The new study, which was conducted by the Universities of Brighton and Portsmouth, and published this week in the journal Science Direct, has revealed for the first time worrying levels of fibreglass or glass reinforced plastic (GRP) particles in oysters and mussels. The study discovered that fibreglass used in boat manufacturing is breaking down and contaminating coastal waters and causing harm to marine life.
The fibreglass particles have been detected in the soft tissues of oysters and mussels collected near an active boatyard in Chichester Harbour, a popular sailing destination in the south of England. Using micro Raman spectroscopy, researchers found up to 11,220 fibreglass particles per kilogram in oysters and 2,740 particles per kilogram in mussels.
Dr Corina Ciocan, Principal Lecturer in Marine Biology from the University of Brighton and one of the report authors, said, ‘Our findings show a disturbing level of GRP contamination in marine life. This study is the first of its kind to document such extensive contamination in natural bivalve populations. It’s a stark reminder of the hidden dangers in our environment.’
Fibreglass, which has been widely used since the 1960s in boat manufacturing, is known to be very durable. On the flip side though, it’s also incredibly difficult to dispose of properly and often ends up abandoned or improperly discarded. This results in tiny glass particles entering the water, especially during peak boat maintenance seasons like winter. These particles then accumulate in bivalves such as oysters and mussels, which are crucial to marine ecosystems due to their filter-feeding habits.
The study highlights the risks associated with fibreglass contamination. Bivalves, being stationary filter feeders, are highly susceptible to accumulating these particles, which can severely impact their health. The ingestion of fibreglass can interfere with their digestive systems, leading to physiological stress and even death. This not only affects marine life but could also have significant implications for human health, given that these bivalves often end up on our dinner plates.
Professor Fay Couceiro from the University of Portsmouth, and another of the report authors, said, ‘It’s a global issue, particularly for island nations with limited landfill space. Efforts are being made to find viable disposal solutions, but more needs to be done to prevent at-sea dumping and onshore burning. We’re just starting to understand the extent of fibreglass contamination. Our study is the first to show this level of contamination in natural bivalve populations.’
The consequences of this contamination are not yet fully understood, but the potential for widespread ecological – and human health- impact is significant. The research highlights the urgent need for better regulation and management of fibreglass disposal. Commenting on this Professor Couceiro said, ‘We have to address this issue head-on to protect our marine ecosystems and ensure a healthier future for our oceans.’
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