400,000 overspills into waterways took place in 2020

The Environment Agency has released new figures which states that water companies discharged raw sewage into waterways over 400,000 times in 2020.

This often happens as a result of extreme weather events, such as long periods of heavy rain, where the system can ‘overspill’. Whilst this is a necessary part of the drainage system and doesn’t signal that the system isn’t working properly, there are now calls for more investment in the system to cope better with these events, which may become more frequent due to climate change.

The Environment Agency allows water utilities to release sewage into rivers and streams after extreme weather events such as prolonged heavy rain. This protects properties from flooding and prevents sewage from backing up into streets and homes.

The agency says that overflows are "not a sign that the system is faulty", and that they are "a necessary part of the existing sewerage system."

Campaigners have argued for greater investment in the capacity of sewage systems to cope with heavy demand during extreme weather events, which may be becoming more frequent because of climate change.

According to a recent BBC report, it’s also believed that the wet wipes make up at least 90% of what blocks up systems. If these, combined with fats and grease being poured down drains were reduced, it would also reduce the need for sewerage releases.

Christine McGourty, Water UK Chief Executive added:
“Water companies are absolutely committed to playing their part in reducing any harm from storm overflows, and that’s why they’re investing £1.1bn over the next five years on this, as part of a wider £5bn programme of environmental improvements.