The truth about English water pollution and sewage

Press/Media: Research

Description

Join us as University of Manchester graduate Aidan Rhode chats with Professor Jamie Woodward, a leading expert in environmental geography, to discuss disturbing new findings on how England’s water companies are misleading the public about sewage pollution. Based on a major study published in Nature Water, the conversation uncovers how water companies are using greenwashing, disinformation, and PR spin - mirroring the tactics once used by the tobacco and fossil fuel industries - to deflect blame and avoid accountability. Professor Woodward explains how these companies are rebranding sewage spills, downplaying environmental harm, and even blaming customers to protect profits while dumping millions of hours of untreated wastewater into rivers. He also speaks to the real impact of this pollution - from microplastic contamination to serious ecological damage and risks to public health. This is a must-watch for anyone concerned about environmental justice, corporate accountability, and the future of the UK’s rivers.

Explore more and take action: 

River Rescue Kit – Practical tools to help monitor and protect your local rivers: https://kit.riveractionuk.com/

Period16 Mar 2025 → 23 Jul 2025

Media contributions

2

Media contributions

  • TitleThe truth about English water pollution and sewage
    Media name/outletYouTube
    Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
    Date23/07/25
    URLhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MJ_lC3Tcvw
    PersonsJamie Woodward
  • TitleRiver Action UK
    Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
    Date16/03/25
    DescriptionAs part of the River Rescue Kit, Professor Jamie Woodward from the University of Manchester, alongside Groundwork and Love Your River Irk, expose the impact of sewage pollution on our rivers. Learn why it’s happening, how it affects communities, and what you can do to fight back.
    URLhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JP9o6K2HnME
    PersonsJamie Woodward