EA failure to investigate serious pollution incidents highlights institutional failings

Without a doubt, the Environment Agency should be investigating every single serious pollution incident that is reported to them. We’re dismayed to see a new report today claiming that a high number of pollution cases are not being investigated by the Environment Agency, and that without even visiting the site many have had their environmental impact downgraded. It is essential that the environmental regulator fully investigates every serious incident and holds polluters to account. This is just another indication of the institutional failings and systemic underfunding that have undermined the Environment Agency’s ability to protect our rivers for many years.

The government must take action – and soon – to progress its plans for a single water regulator, ensuring it is properly resourced and empowered to have the muscle-power and teeth to prosecute polluters. Investigations are vital in determining both the cause and the impact of pollution incidents, and must be followed by significant fines which should be used to reverse the damage caused and build greater resilience into our river systems.

Mark Lloyd, Chief Executive