Down the Drain and into the River
We all use cleaning and personal care products, but as we clean our houses and ourselves, we may not realise that we are also polluting our rivers and streams...
Wastewater treatment systems are not designed to remove the chemicals contained in cleaning products, so they are released into rivers and streams where they accumulate, having a huge impact on wildlife and water quality.
With just one small change, by swapping to environmentally friendly cleaning products, we can all make a huge difference to river ecosystems.
Why it matters?
In the UK, around 69 million people use:
- Bleach
- Toilet cleaner
- Laundry detergents and fabric conditioner
- Dishwasher tablets and washing-up liquid
- Soap, shampoo, and conditioner
- Cosmetic and personal products
Each one of these products can contain harmful chemicals (listed below). Each use may seem small, but combined, they add up to a substantial chemical load.
Substances of concern
PFAS (“forever chemicals”)
Used in some cosmetics, bathroom products, general cleaners, and waterproof or stain-resistant products, these substances do not break down in the environment and can persist for decades. They accumulate in water, wildlife, and people, impacting our immune system, affecting our hormones, and causing developmental issues.
Chlorine-based bleaches
These highly effective disinfectants are critically harmful to aquatic life. They kill beneficial microorganisms and can affect growth and reproduction in wildlife. Chlorine lasts a long time and can concentrate in the bodies of living organisms.
Phosphates (mainly found in detergents)
Only a small percentage of phosphates are removed during the wastewater treatment process. In rivers, they encourage excessive plant and algal growth, which reduces oxygen levels, leading to the death of fish.
Microplastics (including microbeads)
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that can carry other pollutants. Commonly found in liquid detergent pods, laundry detergent, toilet blocks, dishwashing detergents, and scouring sponges, they are eaten by aquatic organisms and can accumulate in tissues, affecting health and feeding, sometimes leading to starvation.
Fipronil and Imidacloprid
Found in ‘spot-on’ pet flea and tick treatments, these powerful neurotoxic insecticides devastate aquatic wildlife. These chemicals are widely available to buy off the shelf, and are applied to millions of dogs and cats every year. They reach our rivers when pet owners bath treated pets and wash their hands, even up to 28 days post-application.
What can we do to reduce pollution?
When shopping for cleaning products, consider the following:
- Choose phosphate-free and eco-labelled detergents
- Avoid products containing PFAS where possible
- Reduce use of bleach or switch to milder alternatives
- Avoid products with microplastics
- Use only the recommended amount of any products
Unfortunately, most of the major cleaning brands found on supermarket shelves contain many of the chemicals listed above. Instead, look for smaller brands and independent businesses that offer environmentally friendly cleaning products.
One small change by many people will make a huge difference to our rivers and streams.