Source of pollution which killed hundreds of birds off the Dorset coast cannot be found (From Thisisdorset)

Source of pollution which killed hundreds of birds off the Dorset coast cannot be found

3:43pm Tuesday 19th February 2013 in Latest

AN INVESTIGATION into pollution which killed hundreds of seabirds has been unable to find the source.

Around 300 birds, mainly guillemots, were washed up two weeks ago along Chesil Beach and other sites on the south coast covered in a waxy substance.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) carried out an investigation into the source of the polyisobutyliene (PIB) but was unable to determine where or when the material was released.

A spokesman for the MCA said that unless more information emerges the investigation is closed.

He said: “After tests were carried out on a sample of the product, it was identified as polyisobutene, or polyisobutyliene (PIB).

“This is a fairly common chemical carried aboard ships and it is produced in a large number of countries.

“We have been unable to identify specific components of the product that may have helped us find the source.”

He added: “We did not receive any reports of pollution within the English Channel area at the time when the birds were coming ashore.

“As such, we have concluded that it is highly unlikely we will be able to link the pollution to any specific vessel.

“Unless we receive any new information, our investigation is now closed.”

The RSPB has called for the polyisobutene (PIB) oil additive, which can be released legally under certain conditions, to be reclassified and discharges outlawed.

About 200 of the rescued birds have survived so far and the first batch is due to be released back into the wild within a few weeks.