Hertfordshire environmental charity urges next government to clean up the rivers
Current high levels of pollution are degrading the local biodiversity
Last updated 1st Jul 2024
An environmental charity in Hertfordshire is urging the next government to invest in the protection of rivers to save the local biodiversity and species.
It comes four days ahead of voters taking to the polls to elect their new MPs.
The main concern across the county are chalk rivers, which are under significant threat from different kinds of pollution.
Sarah Perry, Rivers Coordinator at Hartford and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, said: “We're really fortunate to have a share of the world's globally rare chalk rivers but sadly, they are being impacted quite hugely by various kinds of pollution entering the system.”
Recent reports indicate alarming levels of pollution in Hertfordshire’s rivers. Volunteers have been actively monitoring these pollution levels, focusing on phosphates and nitrates.
What is causing such high levels of pollution in Hertfordshire rivers?
Ms Perry explained that road runoff can be a significant contributor, whereby roads collect dust, sediment, heavy metals, and other pollutants. And when it rains, all of that pollution is washed directly into our rivers, which is detrimental to wildlife.
Agricultural runoff is another source of contamination, and while an increasing number of farmers are making an active change for the planet by swapping for more environmentally-friendly fertilisers, Ms Perry pointed out that nitrates and phosphates can sometimes run off into rivers during heavy rains, causing algae blooms that suffocate native plants.
The third and most notable point refers to sewage treatment, which Ms Perry listed as a critical component in the pollution problem. She explained that regular discharges from sewage facilities add phosphates to the rivers, promoting excessive algae growth and reducing oxygen levels in the water. “This can cause huge fish kills and also pose risks to human health due to contaminants like E. coli,” she added.
The pollution has far-reaching impacts on both biodiversity and human health. “Our health and well-being are inextricably linked to the wildlife and nature around us,” she said. “If people can't enjoy these rivers due to pollution, it directly impacts their health and welfare.”
What is the Wildlife Trust calling for?
Volunteers at the Wildlife Trust are crucial in monitoring pollution levels and providing data on the extent of contamination.
However there is a need for investment in upgrading sewage treatment facilities to handle more capacity and treat water more effectively.
Ms Perry said: “We need to see government making stronger stands in supporting regulation of our rivers. Policies should incentivise sustainable practices and enhance the ability of local authorities to manage pollution sources.”
“We want to see people pushing their local candidates, no matter what party, to consider how they are going to improve our rivers. Our rivers should be a key focus of this election.”
“The whole ethos of catchment partnerships and planning is about bringing together different parties to address these issues comprehensively. We have the networks in place, we just need the resourcing unlocked to enable the necessary changes.”
You can find the Wildlife Trust's full election manifesto on their website.