Chemical spill kills thousands of birds

A coalition of conservationists and animal welfare charities, along with the UK Chamber of Shipping, have joined forces to call for an urgent review of the hazard classification status of polyisobutene (PIB). The chemical has caused “carnage” for birds in the English Channel, coating their plumage, restricting their movement and preventing them from feeding, the campaigners said.

The RSPB said the death toll has exceeded the number affected by the MSC Napoli beaching off Devon in 2007.

PIB is a lubricant used to improve engine performance and can legally be discharged in small quantities from ships.

Joan Edwards, head of The Wildlife Trusts’ Living Seas Programme, said: “I have seen the carnage on the beaches and removing the pollution threat of this devastating substance is an easy win in the ongoing battle to safeguard the future of our marine environment.”