26/04/07
To address urban diffuse pollution we need to recognise its sources and understand the many pathways through which it reaches water courses.
The clean-up of our rivers and marine outfalls was only properly addressed in Europe in the late 1980s. Once faced, 'point source' pollution became a strong focus for action. The less visible impacts of our urban lifestyles and from businesses discharging to public sewers presents an equal or greater challenge.
While change will not come overnight, developing the tools we know are relevant and making sure the right incentives and the right instruments are in place can no longer be postponed.
Speech on urban diffuse pollution (pdf)
Chief executive Pamela Taylor addressed a Water UK think tank earlier this month.
Think tank background
(The report from the Water UK urban diffuse pollution think tank will be available shortly.)
Defra consultation
Contact: Steve Ntifo
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