PLASTIC FANTASTIC
Taking plastics under their wings
— By Plasteurope.com staff —
Gannets are clever birds, displaying a life-affirming pragmatism that we humans often lack. These seabirds have been breeding on the Icelandic islet of Eldey for thousands of years, but they don’t put too much effort into building their nests. They prefer to go fishing, collecting all sorts of things while hunting, which they piece together to make a frugal breeding site.
Gannets are clever birds, displaying a life-affirming pragmatism that we humans often lack. These seabirds have been breeding on the Icelandic islet of Eldey for thousands of years, but they don’t put too much effort into building their nests. They prefer to go fishing, collecting all sorts of things while hunting, which they piece together to make a frugal breeding site.
 Eco-economical pragmatist: the northern gannet isn’t picky when sourcing its nest-building materials (Photo: PantherMedia/DHDeposit18) |
During an expedition to the island, researchers have now also found plastics waste being used as nest-building material. The scientists’ lament was loud: “Pollution everywhere!” they complained bitterly. The gannets were more self-assured, pointing out that they had merely oriented themselves to the new European recycling quotas…
— Translated by Andru Shively
14.02.2025 Plasteurope.com [257106-0]
Published on 14.02.2025