We Need to Talk about Sewage

Given the crisis in the state of our rivers it is perhaps no surprise that sewage and pollution in our waterways became a political issue in the recent election. There are many causes of this: climate change and and weather extremes which are beyond the planned capacity of our wastewater systems. An ageing infrastructure conceived in a different age with different attitudes to waste. An economic framework which has led to under-investment in the technology required. A weak and underfunded regulatory authority.

But do we know how to solve this problem? Private citizens have become the front line in gathering data and calling out the Water Companies. National newspapers have added their voice to supporting them. Do we need rethink the economic model? Do we need a more strategic approach to dealing with weather extremes for example focussing on surface storm water? Can we invest more in nature-based filtration and smaller scale technical solutions. And do the engineering professions need to get more involved in these activities?

Panel includes:

Julia King, Julia King Associates

George Rose, Water Design Engineers

Rhys Williams, Civic Engineers

The event will feature short presentations from a number of contributors and open discussion: come and have your say.

Produced in Association with the Happold Foundation

Image: A constructed wetland built for nutrient mitigation in the Stour catchment. Courtesy of Water Design Engineers.

Host or Publisher The Engineering Club