# One billion plastic pellets spill into River Tyne after ship collision

A collision between two ships in the River Tyne has spilled an estimated one billion plastic pellets into the water. The pellets, used in manufacturing, pose a serious threat to marine life and the local ecosystem. Environmental groups are calling for urgent cleanup and stricter shipping safety measures.

**Importance:** 4/5

## Sources

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jul/22/billion-plastic-pellets-nurdles-spilled-uk-river-ships-collide) — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 16:14:57 GMT