Plastic nurdles, pre-production plastic pellets used in the manufacture of plastic products, are washing ashore on beaches in some southern islands. 

The plastic nurdles, which pose risk of environmental damage, have been found in two islands so far. 

The Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) has called on islands to report to them if such plastic nurdles are found on their beaches. ERA is undertaking related surveys at present. 

A letter sent to the HDh. Hanimaadhoo Council by ERA yesterday states that about 1,680 metric tonnes of plastic nurdles carried by 'Express Pearl' vessel near the Sri Lankan coast which sank due to a fire incident in May 2021, as well as 22 tonnes of plastic nurdles carried by 'MMS Elsa 3' which sank near India's Kerala Coast in October last year have been washing up on beaches in the region and causing heavy pollution. 

The plastic nurdles are small white or translucent pellets which are about 1 to 5 mm in size. 

ERA said plastic nurdles stay afloat, drift with the tide, and remain undecomposed for long periods. Hence, the chances of these being washed up on Maldivian shores during season changes are high. The ERA stated that they are undertaking relevant studies, through which the occurrence has been identified at a number of local islands now. 

The issue will cause negative impacts on marine life, tourism and fisheries, the ERA noted, adding that it will also directly and indirectly affect people's health. 

For these reasons, ERA appealed for cooperation from island councils in related surveys and studies. 

The ERA also directed the Hanimaadhoo Council to inspect the island's beaches to see if such plastic nurdles have washed ashore there. 

The survey so far indicates that plastic nurdles have washed ashore on some islands in HDh atoll. Islands in the north are expected to be more likely to be affected based on tides and currents.