Worthing Borough Council issues warning after palm oil found on coast

The Environment Agency is investigating after what is believed to be palm oil was found along the Adur and Worthing coastline yesterday.

Worthing Borough Council said the substance was discovered at three locations on the seafront opposite East Beach Studios in Beach Parade and at Windsor Lawns in Worthing, as well as by Perch on Lancing beach.

The council’s coastal warden team worked with the waste team to have it removed and the Environment Agency is due to take a sample of the substance today.

The area will be monitored over the next couple of days, the council said.

The substance is believed to be palm oil (Image: Worthing Borough Council)

A council spokesman said: “Palm oil can get into the marine environment when it is legally released at sea by ships when vessels wash out their tanks.

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“The resulting substances are often mixed with other chemicals such as diesel, making it extremely harmful if ingested.

“Washed up onto the beach, palm oil is white and waxy in appearance and can range in a variety of sizes from pebble sized, semi-solid lumps to larger blocks and can smell of diesel.

“Dog owners in Adur and Worthing are being advised to be cautious when walking their pets on the beach. If they suspect their pet has eaten any of the substance they should go to the vets immediately.”

If anyone spots what they think could be palm oil then they can contact the coastal office on 01903238977.