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What areas in England have poor water quality?
In 2024, 37 bathing waters in England were identified as having poor quality, with 18 of these newly designated sites failing to meet minimum standards. The Environment Agency's testing highlights a concerning trend, particularly in inland waters, where pollution levels are notably higher compared to coastal areas.
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What are the causes of this water quality crisis?
The primary causes of the water quality crisis in England include sewage pollution from water companies and agricultural runoff. Increased scrutiny has revealed that these sources of pollution are significantly impacting the quality of both coastal and inland waters, leading to a record number of sites classified as poor.
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How are water companies and agriculture contributing?
Water companies are contributing to the crisis through inadequate management of sewage systems, which often leads to untreated sewage being discharged into water bodies. Additionally, agricultural practices, such as the use of fertilizers and pesticides, result in runoff that contaminates nearby water sources, exacerbating the pollution problem.
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What actions are being called for to improve water quality?
The Environment Agency is calling for urgent regulatory reforms to hold polluting companies accountable. Water Minister Emma Hardy has described the current situation as 'unacceptable' and indicated that new measures will be implemented to address the pollution from both water companies and agricultural practices.
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What can individuals do to help improve water quality?
Individuals can contribute to improving water quality by reducing their use of harmful chemicals in gardening and landscaping, properly disposing of waste, and advocating for better environmental policies. Supporting local initiatives aimed at protecting water sources can also make a significant difference.