Toilet Paper Chemicals Threatening Vulnerable Orcas

Orca whales are in trouble, and it’s not just because of overfishing and habitat loss. These magnificent marine mammals are also struggling with an alarming amount of contaminants in their bodies, making them some of the most polluted animals in the world. In a recent study, scientists from the University of British Columbia, the British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and Food, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada discovered a chemical used in toilet paper production in the livers and skeletal muscles of dead Southern Resident and Bigg’s orcas.

Source: CTV News/Youtube

The chemical, 4-nonylphenol (4NP), is part of a group of chemicals known as alkylphenols, which are “very toxic.” Although it’s too soon to determine the full impact of 4NP on orcas, researchers say it can affect their reproductive and developmental processes, as well as their nervous and cognitive systems. While the source of 4NP in the whales is unknown, it is commonly found in sewage sludge and wastewater treatment plants, as well as in detergents and cosmetic products.

The study also found over half of the contaminants in the orcas to be PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.” PFAS are notorious for their inability to break down in the environment, and they can increase the risk of diseases like cancer and liver disease in humans. The study authors were surprised to find a type of PFAS, 7:3-fluorotelomer carboxylic acid, in an orca from the Pacific Northwest for the first time.

Southern Resident orcas, in particular, are facing a difficult time. In addition to the challenges of habitat loss and Climate change, they are also facing a declining food supply due to overfishing. The contaminants in their food sources, such as Chinook salmon, are also affecting their reproduction, with 69 percent of Southern Resident orca pregnancies failing. Chemicals are also being passed down from mothers to fetuses, further endangering the species.

The study authors noted that only a few orcas had been screened for 4NP contamination, and they don’t expect to be able to conduct another study like this anytime soon due to limited access to orca organs. The lack of data raises many questions about the extent of chemical contamination in orcas and how it is affecting their survival.

“This is just the tip of the iceberg,” says researcher Juan José Alava. “We need to do more to understand the full impact of contaminants on orcas and take action to protect them.”

It’s time for us to take action. We can start by reducing our use of single-use products, including toilet paper, and choosing eco-friendly alternatives. We can also advocate for stricter regulations on chemical pollutants and Support organizations working to protect orca whales and their habitats. Let’s not wait until it’s too late to save these magnificent creatures.

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Related Content:

•  Toxic Chemical Found in Toilet Paper Responsible for Orca Population Decline, Study Finds
• Petition: Shut Down SeaWorld and Send All Orcas to Sanctuaries
• Orca Who Died After Becoming Stranded Found to Have Nothing but Plastic in Stomach
• Three Captive Orcas Violently Attack Each Other at SeaWorld Just One Day After Orca Nakai Died
• Dead Orca Caught in Fishing Gear Off Oregon Coast

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