Danish and British scientists have completed an autopsy on a fin whale that washed ashore in Denmark, uncovering evidence of a growing marine threat. The whale, found dead on a beach near Esbjerg, exhibited signs of entanglement in fishing gear and ingestion of plastic debris, according to the team from the University of Copenhagen and the UK's Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas).
Dr. Helena Morton, a marine biologist leading the British contingent, stated: "This whale's stomach contained over 30 kilograms of plastic. It is a stark reminder of the pollution choking our seas. The injuries from netting were severe and likely contributed to its death."
The findings come as global shipping and fishing industries face increased scrutiny over their environmental impact. The autopsy also revealed high levels of heavy metals in the whale's tissues, suggesting industrial runoff is entering the food chain. The research, funded by the UK government's Blue Planet Fund, aims to inform policy on marine conservation.
Fishermen's unions in the UK have expressed concern but argue that stricter regulations could jeopardise livelihoods. "We want sustainable seas, but the burden cannot fall solely on fishing communities," said Ray Jenkins, secretary of the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations. "We need investment in new gear and enforcement on polluters."
The report adds urgency to ongoing international talks on a global treaty for plastic pollution, with negotiations set to resume in Paris next month. Meanwhile, local campaigners in Denmark are calling for a ban on single-use plastics near coastal areas.
For the whale, the tragedy underscores the cost of human activity on marine life. But for the scientists, it is a wake-up call to act before more species pay the price.
