Concern as polystyrene washes up on Ramsgate beach
10:45, 14 March 2021
updated: 16:45, 15 March 2021
A human-sized chunk of polystyrene washed up on a Kent beach this weekend.
The large wedge was among a huge scattering of plastic discovered covering the sand at Western Undercliff Beach in Ramsgate yesterday.
Trevor Cooper, 58, and his wife were on a walk when they came across the debris and were concerned about the harm it could have on wildlife.
He said: "It is a hazard to fish and birds. It breaks down into tiny particles, which they then eat. It could poison them.
"Eventually it could end up in our food chain.
"I picked up the large piece to show just how big it was."
The couple collected what they could and also posted about it on social media.
Members of the Thanet Coastal Project also arrived at the beach to help collect the waste.
It was also reported to Thanet District Council and the out of hours team arranged for contractors to clear the polystyrene.
Steve Albon (Lab), who is cabinet member for operational service, said the crew collected around 98% of the plastic.
He said: "A member of the public phoned the council and I was notified of the issue. I wanted to get it sorted as soon as possible.
"We were notified at 4pm and by 6pm it was cleared. We cleaned away as much as we could; I'm advised about 98% was collected.
"I can't remember this happening before. We don't know where it came from, it came with the tide. But there is indication it came from the Port of Dover.
"I was concerned about the effect on wildlife, as it is close to the nature reserve as Pegwell Bay.
"I'm so grateful to the member of public who reported it and to the team who helped clear it up."
Mr Cooper said he was also impressed by the quick response from the council.
According to Recycle Now, polystyrene is a type of plastic which is not commonly recycled.
Expanded polystyrene is recognised for being used for take-away food containers and to package white goods like microwaves.
Polystyrene is also sometimes used for other food packaging like multi-pack yoghurts.
Some local authorities accept it in recycling collections although it is unlikely to actually be recycled.
Mr Cooper says polystyrene is his 'pet hate'.
He added: "Every company uses it for packaging, but it can't be recycled. I've heard of a company in China which uses it to make toys.
"It would be great if they could establish a factory here so that our polystyrene can be recycled too. It would bring employment to the area too."
