Researchers from CSIRO and Imperial College have unveiled that around 90% of all seabirds alive today have eaten plastic of some kind. The researchers came to know about the same after going through all the published research papers dating back to the early 1960s.

The researchers said nearly every bird will have eaten plastic by 2050. As per the research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, less than 5% of seabirds were having plastic in their bodies in early 1960s. But the scenario changed drastically after that.

All types of plastics have been found inside seabirds like balloons, glow-sticks, cigarette lighters, model cars and toys. Of all birds, albatross, penguins, shearwaters and seagulls are the ones most likely to consume plastic and it can cause them severe illness or even death.

Birds by mistake eat plastic as they take it as fish eggs or other food item. Chris Wilcox from CSIRO said the study has helped them know the wide ranging impact of plastic on marine species and they are stunned to know the results.

Dr. Denise Hardesty with CSIRO has suggested that waste management should be improved. “Even simple measures can make a difference, such as reducing packaging, banning single-use plastic items or charging an extra fee to use them, and introducing deposits for recyclable items like drink containers”, said Hardesty.