A widespread examination of rivers throughout Britain this summer has revealed that 75% are experiencing poor ecological conditions due to pollution from water companies and agricultural runoff.
According to data collected by volunteers for Earthwatch Europe, rivers in the south-east and East Anglia regions of England, including the Thames basin, are among the most affected, with 89% failing to meet criteria for good ecological health.
Dr Sasha Woods, director of science and policy at Earthwatch Europe, described the situation around London and the Thames river basin as particularly concerning.
Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire exhibited the worst water quality, with 91% and 89% of rivers respectively showing unacceptable levels of nutrient pollution. Conversely, Northumberland and Gwent had the least nutrient pollution, boasting 100% acceptable water quality.
Critics argue that since the Brexit vote in 2016, the Environment Agency (EA) has decreased the frequency of river testing under the EU-derived water framework directive (WFD) from annually to every three years, resulting in monitoring gaps.
Woods emphasized the need for the incoming government to develop a national freshwater strategy addressing all forms of pollution, supported by a well-funded organization utilizing citizen science data.
These findings align with assessments by the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP), which reported that most of England’s water bodies are in unsatisfactory conditions, and the government is not on track to meet environmental goals set under the WFD. Monitoring deficiencies were cited as a significant obstacle to progress.
Under the WFD, all rivers are mandated to achieve “good” ecological status by 2027. However, experts doubt this target will be met without significant intervention. Before the recent election, the Conservatives proposed altering the testing regime away from the strictures of the WFD.
In the latest citizen monitoring initiative, conducted from June 7 to 10 this year, thousands of volunteers participated in the Great UK WaterBlitz, gathering over 1,300 datasets. Participants measured levels of nitrates and phosphates, common pollutants found in sewage and agricultural runoff.
Excessive nutrient levels lead to overgrowth of plants and algae, elevated bacteria levels, and reduced oxygen, harming aquatic life. The report underscores regional disparities in water quality, with researchers categorizing regions into river basin districts.
Woods stressed the urgent need for improved wastewater treatment and reduced agricultural pollution to safeguard vulnerable freshwater systems. She highlighted the government’s commitment to protect 30% of land for nature by 2030, emphasizing the necessity of addressing river health alongside land conservation efforts.
The report, made possible by widespread citizen participation, underscores the public’s deep concern for river health and the potential for grassroots action. Woods advocates for increased citizen science initiatives and better utilization of data by organizations like the Environment Agency to ensure a healthier future for rivers nationwide.
