When the tar-like spheres first appeared on Tuesday, some beaches were closed because of concerns that they would be extremely harmful.
At first, they were thought to be tar balls, which are created when oil comes into contact with water and debris, frequently as a result of seepage or oil spills.
Although the source was “somewhat of a mystery” and testing were still being conducted this weekend, authorities now know what’s in them.
“We can now confirm that the balls are composed of fatty acids, which are chemicals that are similar to those found in cleaning and cosmetic products, mixed with some fuel oil, based on advice from the Environment Protection Authority,” stated Mark Hutchings, the maritime chief for New South Wales.
He claimed that although there were fewer of them, they were still cleaning up on Friday.
As a precaution, municipalities were compelled to block beaches in Bondi, Bronte, Maroubra, Clovelly, Tamarama, Gordon’s Bay, and Coogee due to the leak.
With over 100 beaches in its harbor and along the beachfront, Sydney is well known for its beaches.
