Mapping the Global Plastic Pellet Supply Chain

In a world increasingly conscious of its environmental footprint, the issue of plastic pollution has taken centre stage. While much attention has been focused on larger macroplastic debris and litter, the full lifetime cycle of plastics is not commonly concerned when discussing plastic pollution. However, following an increasing number of pre-production plastic pellets being identified across the globe, a review of the global supply chain of plastics will be able to identify the potential causes of the emerging pollutant.

Plastic pellets, commonly known as ‘nurdles’, are the building blocks of countless plastic products, from single-use water bottles to packaging materials. However, the mishandling and mismanagement of these pellets through the production, transport and manufacturing have resulted in substantial spills directly into waterways and the oceans, leading to widespread contamination.

Oracle Environmental Experts has been working alongside FIDRA, an environmental charity working to reduce plastic waste and chemical pollution, and is pleased to announce a new report ‘Mapping the Global Pellet Supply Chain’. The report offers a comprehensive analysis of the extent of the supply chain and scale of the pollution. Looking into examples of acute and chronic losses, as well as touching on the impacts of this pellet pollution on communities, livelihoods, and ecosystems which can be viewed here.

Oracle Environmental Experts’ own Sam Perkins and Joshua Doran, joined by FIDRA, discussed some of the key findings of the report in a webinar presentation which is being re-run at 16:00 on 10 August 2023, you can join the presentation live here or view it on their YouTube channel afterwards.