Keep it Clean! The river Kent needs you. How “river clean” is your household?

Excess phosphates make the water nutrient-rich, triggering blooms of harmful algae which reduce oxygen for fish and other aquatic life.

Non-toilet items can block sewage systems and eventually harm rivers. Flushing only pee, poo, and toilet paper keeps plumbing and waterways safe.

Oils, fats, and food waste can clog pipes and increase pollution in rivers. Proper disposal helps protect the environment.

Using phosphate-free detergents, natural ingredient shampoos, shower gel, bath soaps and cleaning products reduces harmful nutrient loads entering river systems, helping aquatic life thrive.

Fertilisers often contain phosphates, which wash into streams during rain. Applying them responsibly reduces pollution risk.

Excess phosphorus (in phosphates) makes the water nutrient-rich (eutrophication), which allows toxic, nutrient-tolerant plants (like blue-green algae) to grow. This reduces oxygen for other plants and animals, harming the river ecosystem.

Collecting rainwater for garden use and choosing peat-free compost helps reduce phosphate and nutrient runoff into rivers. Avoid applying fertilisers before heavy rain, as this can wash nutrients into waterways and contribute to harmful algae growth.

Many personal care products contain chemicals that are slow to break down. These accumulate in waterways, affecting water quality and wildlife. Avoid using them before going swimming, paddling, kayaking etc. Or if you have to, use eco-friendly brands.