Research and analysis

Faecal contamination: challenges for the water environment

The evidence of faecal contamination, sources of contamination and control measures. Plus a summary of projects addressing evidence gaps.

• From: Environment Agency
• Published: 22 October 2021
• Last updated: 20 November 2025 — See all updates

Applies to England

Documents

Faecal contamination: challenges for the water environment

ODT, 149 KB

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Details

An update to this narrative in planned by 31 December 2025.

The report describes:

• the evidence for and sources of faecal contamination in the water environment
• control measures for industry and agriculture
• interactions with other challenges
• projects designed to fill the evidence gaps

Published 22 October 2021

Last updated 20 November 2025 + show all updates

1. 20 November 2025

   An update to this narrative in planned by 31 December 2025.

2. 22 October 2021

   First published.