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Facts about Fat, Oil & Grease
Fat does not just cause problems in local drainage systems - it causes major issues for sewer networks.
The reduced capacity of the network caused by FOG accumulations can lead to surcharges where sewers are forced to 'overflow' into rivers, streams and beaches. Many major utilities have set up task-forces to address the problem and are adopting a 'polluter' pays principle.
FOG FACTS:Fat, oil and grease costs the UK Water industry an estimated £15M per year.
source - Anglian Water
Anglian Water estimate that 10,000 tonnes of fat, oil and grease enter their drainage system each year alone – reducing the sewer capacity by up to 10%.
source - Anglian Water
The Environment Agency estimate 75% of sewer blockages are caused by a build-up of FOG.
source - Environment Agency
The Environment Agency estimate that Sewer Blockages account for over 100,000 environmental incidents each year.
source - Environment Agency
Thames Water reported that in 2007/2008 over 60,500 sewer blockages reported were caused in part by FOG.
source - Thames Water
(Image taken from Thameswater MediaArchive)
