Volunteers Sound Alarm Over ‘Environmental Disaster’ On Selsey’s West Beach

Environmental volunteers in Selsey are warning of a growing “environmental disaster” after debris from lost cargo washed up along West Beach earlier this week.

Members of the Selsey Beach Litter Ninjas say they have been collecting large quantities of polyurethane insulation, plastic crates and other cargo material — much of it already breaking down into small fragments.

According to the group, all cleanup work so far has been carried out by volunteers, with no visible official response on the beach.

They warn the situation is becoming more urgent by the hour as the debris rapidly deteriorates.

In a statement, the group said:

“This is an environmental disaster, and time is of the essence. Everything collected on West Beach today was cleared by volunteers — nobody official.

"There is still no clear response, no plan, and no visible action from the authorities.

"The polyurethane insulation and plastic crates are breaking apart before our eyes, leaching chemicals and disintegrating into microplastics that threaten Sussex Bay’s fragile recovery.

"We need urgent help, clear communication, proper resources, and a safe disposal plan. Right now, far too little is being done, far too late.”

They added that while skips may be provided, this would not be enough to deal with the scale of the issue or the hazardous nature of the material involved.

The deteriorating foam insulation — believed to be chemically treated — poses risks to wildlife, water quality and the wider marine environment as it continues to fragment.

Volunteers are now calling for a coordinated response from authorities, including specialist support and clear guidance on how the hazardous waste will be safely removed and disposed of.

Anyone wishing to assist the clean-up efforts is encouraged to contact the Selsey Beach Litter Ninjas.