We have to care for Glasgow’s natural environment. 

Polluted oceans, rivers and burns represent a major threat to our health, the welfare of our wildlife, and the long-term future of our ecosystems. It is a human right to expect to be able to swim, surf, paddle and bathe safely without getting sick.  

Our rivers are polluted by a chemical cocktail of sewage, agricultural runoff and contaminants from roads, urban expansion and landfill. The main source of sewage pollution is through sewer overflows which include Combined Sewage Overflows and pumping stations.

 The sewerage system requires investment to cope with the combined pressures of development, increasing population and climate change. We must address the ongoing impact of the discharges of untreated sewage into our rivers.  

There has been upgrade work at the River Kelvin which began in the summer of 2019. This has required mechanical screens being installed on overflow pipes to prevent objects more than 6mm, including baby wipes and large plastic cotton buds, overflowing into the River Kelvin during storm events. As part of the significant investment, new Combined Sewer Overflows and associated pipework have been constructed. This vital work is due to be completed by this summer. 

We have to prevent people who want to enjoy spending time in the water from becoming ill, with conditions ranging from sore throats and upset stomachs to serious illnesses like gastroenteritis, hepatitis and E. coli. According to the European Centre for Environment and Human Health, people who swim or bodyboard in UK waters regularly are three times more likely to have antibiotic-resistant E. coli in their guts.

  In 2022, there was a study conducted by the University of York which found that toxic levels of pharmaceuticals in rivers “pose a threat to environmental and/or human health” and this is a global problem. The River Clyde was listed as the most polluted in the UK.

In response, there is a need for further investment urgently in sewage infrastructure and an end brought to the use of sewage overflows.  

We acknowledge that we benefit from Scottish Water being in public ownership. We can continue to support the delivery of a Scottish Water investment programme that protects and enhances the environmental status of rivers and beaches, upgrading Victorian sewage infrastructure so it can adapt to the growing pressures of the climate emergency.

 The restoration of natural habitats can help to reduce the pressure on the city’s water systems and help prevent sewage overflows. The provision of sustainable urban drainage can enhance the biodiversity value of our environment, as well as reduce surface water flooding and improve water quality. 

In addition, we should recognise the importance of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency as the main regulator for all pollution related matters associated with the water environment.  

Councillors working with many environmental groups across Glasgow can support efforts to improve water quality and reduce the pollution of our city’s rivers. We have to ensure that our River Clyde is a world-class destination, with an accessible waterfront and attractive spaces where people want to spend time.