Sydney, Nov. 7, (dpa/GNA) – Scientists have discovered the origin of thousands of black balls that washed up on eastern Australian beaches in October.
Coogee beach, particularly popular with backpackers, was cleared after lifeguards “discovered mysterious, black, ball-shaped debris” washed along the length of the beach. Three other beaches nearby were also closed after the balls washed ashore.
It was originally thought the balls were ‘tar balls’ which are formed when oil comes in to contact with debris and water.
However in Sydney, New South Wales University professor Jon Beves said extensive testing had found the balls were not natural and could not be attributed solely to an oil spill.
“It is most consistent with human generated waste,” Beves said.
“We found the sticky spheres contained hundreds of different components, including molecules that derive from cooking oil and soap scum, PFAS chemicals, steroidal compounds, antihypertensive medications, pesticides, and veterinary drugs.”
Markers of human faecal waste and recreational drug residues like THC and methamphetamine, were also identified.
Authorities have so far been unable to determine where the balls came from due to their complex composition and the time they had spent in the ocean.
However, the presence of fats, oils, and high calcium levels suggested they could potentially be related to “fatbergs,” commonly formed in sewage systems, scientists said.
GNA