According to data for 2022, 40 sites along the Ouse are regularly polluted by sewage dumping, with 1,656 incidents recorded in a single year. Yorkshire’s rivers are amongst the worst for sewage discharge, with the region’s water company reportedly responsible for a daily average of around 150 sewage overflows.
This river pollution, in combination with the impacts of agricultural pollution of our waterways has devastating consequences. It poisons the entire food chain of the river from plants to insects to fish with knock-on effects on the health and survival of animals and people who depend on it.
River pollution came up as one of the key issues for York residents at last year’s People’s Assembly. In response, everyone is invited to march, sail, row or paddle down the River Ouse together on Saturday 10th Feb, showing our love for the River Ouse. More information and sign-up here.
Here are a few of the reasons York residents will be getting involved:
“I’m taking part in support for a cleaner, healthier Ouse. We all have a right to access nature that’s not polluted, and this is especially important for young people” – Immi
“It’s absolutely scandalous that the Ouse is repeatedly polluted by the organisation paid to look after it….We’re calling on Yorkshire Water to take their responsibility seriously and clean up the Ouse” – Richard
“I love the Ouse, but sadly it’s so polluted….. but we CAN do something about it so please come along and join us on the 10th” – Vida