Council clears up toxic palm oil deposits on shoreline

The clean-up of Worthing and Shoreham's beaches is underway after nuggets of palm oil were washed ashore.
Adur and Worthing councils' park and foreshores team are cleaning the coastlineAdur and Worthing councils' park and foreshores team are cleaning the coastline
Adur and Worthing councils' park and foreshores team are cleaning the coastline

As previously reported earlier today, chunks of the waxy substance littered the coastline across Sussex after being washed up yesterday.

The oil, which is solid at room temperature, can be fatal for dogs if ingested.

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Adur and Worthing Councils’ parks and foreshore department combined forces with its cleansing team to remove the substance, having dealt with similar clean-ups recently.

Palm oil has washed up on the Worthing and Shoreham coastlinePalm oil has washed up on the Worthing and Shoreham coastline
Palm oil has washed up on the Worthing and Shoreham coastline

A council spokesperson said: “In its current clump-like state, it’s easier to pick up and clear, but if left it would become smaller in size and harder to pick up, resulting in a less efficient and timely clean up.

“We ask that members of the public and dog owners stay clear of the white, waxy clumps. They are messy, can stain clothes and are unpleasant for dogs if consumed.”

Samples have been collected and sent to a specialist laboratory for formal analysis.

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Palm oil has washed up on the Worthing and Shoreham coastlinePalm oil has washed up on the Worthing and Shoreham coastline
Palm oil has washed up on the Worthing and Shoreham coastline

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