Project Theme: Diffuse Pollution
Rush Control Trials for farming, biodiversity and run-off reduction
Background The West Pennine Moors (WPM) Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) includes a significant proportion (roughly 20%) of in-bye and allotment farmland. Local farmers and ecologists report that much of the in-bye farmland has deteriorated significantly in quality since 1980s, where areas have become dominated by Juncus effusus (soft…
Managing pollution from rural areas: Using coastal bathing water quality and multiple benefit approaches (green infrastructure and public awareness) to address upstream rural pollution – Hillylaid wetland
Background The Hillylaid site has been selected for delivery as a demonstration of a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SuDS). It is hoped that it will demonstrate the multiple benefits of SuDS, such as the reduction of flood risk and the improvement of habitat in urban areas. It will ideally be…
Manage pollution from waste water: Identify opportunities for mobilisation of wastewater investment to support implementation
Background Environmental problems affecting the River Basin District are complex and interlinked. Investment frequently does not deliver as much as it could, as problems are approached in siloes and a joined up approach is not generally taken. Historically people have focused on fixing a small part of a problem and…
Understanding and taking action on plastics pollution: Identifying macro plastic pathways into rivers and seas
Background The presence of plastic in rivers and coastal waters causes negative impacts on them and the wider environment. Research is ongoing internationally and nationally about the effects and solutions to the problem. However, targeted campaigns and communication about the impacts of plastics to the environment and health of the…
Understanding and taking action on plastics pollution: Micro plastics pollution in Greater Manchester
Background Micro plastics are known to cause issues to marine life and their accumulation in our oceans is of growing concern. Research published in 2018 identified micro plastic accumulation in rivers as a significant contributor to the build-up in our oceans alongside problems it can cause to the river itself…