Researchers have discovered big spikes in various chemicals and drugs in Chichester Harbour, with sewage discharge pinpointed as the principal source of contamination.
A team from Brunel University, the University of Portsmouth, and Imperial College London conducted a comprehensive study, examining the water, seaweed, and marine organisms within Chichester and neighboring Langstone Harbours.
The investigation unveiled the presence of over a hundred different contaminants, which include not only common pollutants such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals meant for pet treatment but also unexpected substances like cocaine.
This contamination, say scientists, is largely attributed to the sewage overflows in the area, a problem that occurs when the existing sewage system is overwhelmed, typically during heavy rainfall.
Southern Water, the company responsible for the sewage infrastructure in the area, has pledged substantial investment in upgrading its sewage treatment facilities and systems. These improvements aim to reduce the frequency and volume of untreated discharges and mitigate their impact on the environment.
The company's planned enhancements include installing more robust and efficient treatment technologies, expanding capacity to handle peak water flow during storms, and improving monitoring systems to predict and manage overflow events.
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