The Rivers Trust has introduced a real-time sewage discharge layer to its interactive Sewage Map, spotlighting combined sewer overflows and highlighting those that have released sewage in the last 48 hours. While this tool is a significant development for wild swimming enthusiasts and environmental advocates, its effectiveness depends on active involvement from water companies. Under the UK's 2021 Environment Act, all water suppliers are mandated to disclose real-time data on pollution incidents, but the act lacks a specific deadline for implementation. Currently, Thames Water is the only firm that has initiated the sharing of such data on the platform.
Despite the gradual progress, the collection and dissemination of real-time information are deemed crucial for addressing the UK's concerning track record of water pollution. This transparency empowers the public with information about safe bathing conditions and enables historical comparisons against weather and groundwater conditions during overflow discharges. These factors are often cited as contributors to sewage spills. Thus, compiling evidence around these incidents can play a pivotal role in ensuring that the investments outlined in the Government's recently announced Plan for Water are allocated wisely.
David Johnson, The Rivers Trust Technical Director, underscores the significance of real-time data in shedding light on sewage pollution and the management of the sewerage system. Open data has proven its impact in recent years, creating awareness about sewage pollution issues. However, annual summaries are no longer sufficient, and the call is now directed at all water companies to swiftly contribute real-time data on sewage discharges. This information not only enables informed decisions about river recreation safety but also aids water sector professionals in comprehending sewerage system management.
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Technology is a useful servant, but a dangerous master, it was rightly said. Electronic devices have grown into an inevitable part of our daily lives.
