I was delighted to be invited to visit the Severn Trent site in my constituency. I saw the storm overflows and learnt how the water is purified before it is returned to the river. It is extremely important that wipes are not flushed down the toilet as these are non-biodegradable and clog up the drainpipes. I witnessed the impact of these in the huge skips of debris on site. It is also important not to put grease down the sink as this sits on top of the water and again causes problems to drains and pipes.
Severn Trent have again been awarded the top 4-star status by the Environment Agency and they are aiming to be net zero by 2030. They are working closely with farms to help them reduce the run-off pollution into rivers in a sustainable way. The site I visited was a haven for wildlife with hedgehogs, rabbits, kestrel and a very friendly pheasant that sits outside the office doors!
