Thousands of tiny polystyrene balls have been found on Cooil Road in Douglas, between Ballacutchel junction and the Braaid Cross Roads.
Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for the Environment, Food and Agriculture said:
'The exact source is unclear; however it is likely they have come from a passing vehicle.'
As such, the public are reminded to be mindful about potential plastic pollution and ensure all items are secured when transporting materials across the Isle of Man.
Minister Boot said:
'Due to their small size, polystyrene balls are classed as micro plastics and can cause real harm to our natural ecosystems and wildlife.'
As soon as the issue was discovered a road sweeper was dispatched immediately.
Although it collected what it could, it's likely that many balls made their way into the surrounding fields and waterways, which could affect wildlife.
It is estimated that around eight million tonnes of plastic enter our oceans each year and the Isle of Man Government is committed to reducing plastic pollution on the Island having published a Single Use Plastics Reduction Strategy for the Isle of Man Community in 2019.
The strategy outlines a number of measures that will come into effect in 2020, including a strategy to ban a number of unnecessary single use plastic items.
If you see plastic pollution around the Island please Email plastics@gov.im
