As the oil begins to be taken off the MSC Napoli today and the crowds are beginning to leave, Devon Wildlife Trust (DWT) is now concerned over the huge amount of litter left on the beaches in Lyme Bay which could have a long term effect on the wildlife in the area.

Not only are the coastline and beaches in this part of Lyme Bay designated as a World Heritage Site and a big draw for tourists but the sea is also home to a wide range of nationally important wildlife and habitats including the Pink Sea Fan and Harbour Porpoise that would be affected if the litter is allowed to remain on the beaches and floating at sea.

Siân Rees, Marine Conservation Officer, said: ‘Litter such as this is a persistent problem to wildlife. It can be mistaken for food and ingestion can lead to infections, starvation, fatal blockages and the build up of toxic substances. Entanglement in litter (particularly rope and cord) also poses a threat to wildlife and can lead to drowning, starvation or suffocation. Plastic is of particular environmental concern as it takes thousands of years to degrade, instead simply breaking down into smaller pieces.’

The charity is hoping the authorities and the salvage team will be swift and thorough to remove as much of the litter as possible in the coming days. DWT is also looking into the nature of the other cargo to identify any other potential risk substances that could be of threat.

DWT is also waiting anxiously for the safe removal of fuel oil from the vessel. The potential for 3500 tonnes of fuel oil to leak into this area would be a significant problem not only to the birds and sea life but also the reef habitats hidden beneath the waves of Lyme Bay which are home to over 280 species.

For more information about the wildlife of the area visit www.devonwildlifetrust.org