Construction businesses told to stop polluting waterways

2006 saw over 120 cases of the construction industry polluting waterways in England and Wales.

Construction businesses were told by the Environment Agency this week that this is completely unacceptable, and that the prevention of waterway pollution should be factored in to construction project plans.

This condemnation of waterway pollution coincided with the the Environment Agency publishing guidelines for construction businesses. The guidelines outline simple steps that construction projects should follow, showing how to assess any potential problems and how to take steps to prevent incidents of pollution. They also contain advice on controlling surface water runoff, and safe use of concrete, cement and herbicides.

Technical adviser at the Environment Agency, Steve Wenham, said: “In 2006, the construction industry was responsible for 271 pollution incidents causing environmental damage, of which 123 were to water.

“Of these, 18 incidents were serious, causing significant damage to watercourses.

“These incidents are not only damaging to our environment, but it can leave the responsible company with an expensive clean up bill.

“Under the law, those who pollute our environment have to pay the clean up costs.

“Where there has been serious pollution, the Environment Agency will prosecute, which can lead to heavy fines.”

Chemical, oil and silt spills can all pollute waterways, which include canals, lakes and reservoirs. Incorrect storage of hazardous waste, and other poor waste management techniques, can also result in pollution.