More than 40% of our rivers in England and Wales have been affected by sewage, meaning a lot of our environment and wildlife suffers the consequences. This is why it’s vital to ensure your drainage system works properly and isn’t being emptied into rivers or the ocean. If you live in Cornwall or Devon, you may find yourself needing drainage services at some point and you should do what you can to protect the marine environment in your area.

Here’s how poor drainage can affect our oceans and sea life.

How does it affect our marine life?

Marine pollution is a widespread issue and you may not think that putting oil down your kitchen sink drain or flushing wet wipes is a big issue. However, on a much bigger scale, with the whole of the UK contributing, these small issues can lead to large scale marine and river pollution.

There are over 11,000 Combined Sewage and Stormwater Overflow drains that are emptied into our rivers and oceans so it’s important these are monitored closely. If not, this can lead to pollution of our oceans to even death or illness of our marine life.

Habitat pollution

Each species that lives in our oceans’ ecosystems have their own habitats that can be greatly affected by what we choose to discharge into the sea. This pollution can have a disastrous impact on delicate ecosystems because of the presence of sewage. Sewage causes increased plant and algae growth, which can be an issue for many species.

Oxygen depletion

Because sewage causes increased plant and algae growth, these end up depriving marine life of oxygen. This is because when they die, they offer more organic matter for bacteria. When the bacteria consume the organic matter, they also consume the oxygen – which denies other sea creatures from having access to it.

Water quality

Not only does sewage affect our sea life and ecosystems, but it also affects our opportunity to enjoy our beaches and oceans. According to Surfers Against Sewage, in 2019 there were almost 2,000 discharges into UK coastal bathing waters during the May-September bathing season alone. In order to enjoy our beloved beaches in Cornwall and Devon, it’s vital we do what we can to protect our oceans.

What can we do to protect our oceans?

The first way to protect our oceans and marine life is to use drains correctly. This means not using them for fats, oils, bits of food, disposable wipes, sanitary items and getting them repaired by drainage specialists when needed.

You should also report it if you catch someone polluting a body of water by contacting the Environment Agency Pollution Hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

If you’re in need of drainage specialists in Cornwall or Devon, get in touch with Aqua Rod South West. We can provide a range of drainage services.

Published by: David Parkes on: January 27th 2022