Seahorse Bin to combat ocean pollution and help plastics research installed at Muttonbird Beach

Visitors to Muttonbird Beach can get a look inside the stomach of a seahorse thanks to a new bin that hopes to combat pollution and aid research on ocean plastics. The Seahorse Bin officially launched on Monday is the second of its kind, the first put up at Bathers Beach in Fremantle last year. The bin removes litter from the coastline but is more than just a deposit point. Local researcher Harriet Paterson will analyse the collected data once a month, including the types and quantities of plastic waste, to map the flow of plastic debris and identify potential sources. The bin’s lock code ensures only those who know about the project’s purpose can deposit waste in it while its perspex stomach means anyone can see what has been dropped inside. In the stomach of Fremantle’s Seahorse Bin, researchers have found decades-old rubbish including plastic bottles, old underwear and cutlery. Dr Linda Davies, who came up with the idea, said the seahorse bin aimed to “harness the power of citizen scientists” to clean up West Australian beaches. “By actively engaging citizens in data collection, the Seahorse Bin not only provides valuable insights into ocean plastic pollution but also fosters a sense of environmental stewardship among local residents,” she said. Dr Davies said plastic pollution posed a significant threat to marine ecosystems and understanding the sources and patterns of plastic pollution was vital for effective mitigation efforts. People interested in adding data to the Seahorse Bin can scan the QR code on its side to receive the lock code and follow the journey of what is collected by following the Instagram page. The project is a collaborative effort involving scientists, South Coast Natural Resource Management, the City of Albany, RMI Engineering and community stakeholders.