Plasticosis: The mysterious new disease threatening seabirds on a remote island paradise
In short: Plastic pollution is a known environmental crisis, but its long-term biological impact remains largely uncharted. This episode investigates the hidden consequences of plastic, from the pervasive spread of industrial nurdles in our oceans to the emergence of a specific disease affecting nesting birds.
The episode follows researchers Tori and Khalil as they examine the environmental footprint of nurdles—tiny plastic pellets used in manufacturing. Millions of these pellets infiltrate marine ecosystems, creating unknown long-term risks. The investigation highlights the work of Dr. Alex Bond, a principal curator of birds at the Natural History Museum, who explores the impact of plasticosis on seabird chicks living on Lord Howe Island in the Tasman Sea.
Beyond wildlife, the program addresses broader questions regarding the human cost of microplastics and the potential for a global agreement to curb pollution. Experts including Dr. Fay Couceiro of the University of Portsmouth, Muditha Katuwawala of The Pearl Protectors, and Heather Mcfarlane of Fidra provide context on the scale of the crisis, including the causes behind Sri Lanka's worst maritime disaster.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Choked: Unpacking our plastic addiction | Episode 4
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