The UK's rivers are riddled with sewage pollution – new wetlands could help clean them up

The UK's rivers are facing significant pollution challenges, primarily from sewage and agricultural runoff. Efforts are underway to address these issues, with new wetlands emerging as a potential solution. The Norfolk Broads, a region in eastern England known for its rivers, lakes, and rare chalk streams, has been grappling with water pollution for years. Local residents noticed that some waterways, including the Little Broad lake, were far from pristine. The culprit was identified as sewage pollution, a widespread issue across the UK. In 2021, the UK's Environment Agency reported 3. 6 million hours of sewage spills into rivers and seas, a significant increase from the previous year. The River Mun, also known as Mundesley Beck, experienced pollution from treated sewage discharged from a nearby treatment plant. Although the discharge was legal, it still posed a threat to the river's ecosystem. This situation highlights the complexity of the UK's sewage pollution problem. Local groups, frustrated with the national system's inability to keep up with growing pressures, have taken matters into their own hands. The Norfolk Rivers Trust, inspired by global models, decided to create wetlands to act as natural filters. Wetlands can significantly improve water quality before it returns to rivers. Other community-based solutions include patrolling waterways for problematic sewage outflows and monitoring water quality using established wildlife-based methods. The UK's rivers are in poor health, with only 14% meeting the 'good ecological status' under the Water Framework Directive for England and Wales. The initial goal was to achieve this standard for all rivers by 2015, but the target has now shifted to 2027, with little hope of success. Agriculture and sewage pollution are major contributors to the problem. Sewage pollution, in particular, harms wildlife and poses health risks to humans. Treated sewage, often only partially treated, remains a significant issue. Wetlands offer a 'nature-based solution' by reducing harmful substances like phosphates in wastewater. In Norfolk, the Frogshall Wetland, built in 2014, aimed to reduce phosphate levels in the River Mun. The wetland has shown impressive results, with a 70-90% reduction in phosphate and ammonia levels. Biodiversity has also increased, with more bird species observed at the site. The success of the Frogshall Wetland has led to the construction of additional wetlands in the region. Wetlands are also proving effective in urban areas. In London, Enfield Council and Thames21 have collaborated with community volunteers to create wetlands that improve river health. These wetlands help clean water before it re-enters the rivers, significantly reducing pollutants like phosphates and ammonia. The UK's antiquated sewer system, which combines surface water and human waste, struggles to cope with heavy rainfall, leading to untreated sewage discharges. The Rivers Trust's 2024 report revealed that none of England's rivers are in good health. Local projects are making a difference, but more coordinated action and funding are needed at higher levels. Community-led initiatives are playing a crucial role in keeping waterways clean. In Norfolk, the wildlife is gradually recovering, and the constructed wetlands are fostering community engagement and habitat restoration.