On Sunday, a significant family-friendly rally in London will draw thousands of people aiming to emphasize the critical need for clean water. The event sheds light on concerns raised by residents living near Tideswell Brook, a rural waterway identified as having the second highest levels of active pharmaceutical pollution in the UK.

Cold water swimmer Jo Broughton, who has avoided swimming in Tideswell Brook since August, expressed her disappointment. She noted that it is surprising for a country like the UK not to protect its pristine landscapes. Recent research led by Professor Alistair Boxall from the University of York and conducted by the Rivers Trust revealed concerning levels of pharmaceuticals—such as antidepressants and antibiotics—polluting the brook.

The study indicated that the concentration of these substances poses risks to both human health and local ecosystems. Professor Boxall suggested that an aging population might contribute to this issue, as older individuals often consume and discard more medications. Broughton, now 44, is worried about potential health risks like antibiotic resistance, stating that swimming exposes her to medications she has not chosen to take.

Local environmental advocates held a meeting for residents to voice their frustrations over this pollution. Lyn Crowe, chairwoman of the local environment group, expressed her dismay at how pollution levels have worsened since she moved to the area 27 years ago. Jill Turner, another resident and open water swimmer, noted that while they initially laughed about the antidepressants found in the water—joking about feeling relaxed after swimming—the reality of such contamination is alarming.

Tideswell Brook is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its significance for wildlife. The research discovered 31 different active pharmaceutical ingredients across numerous sampling points within protected national parks in England during 2022. These biologically active drugs commonly enter waterways through improper disposal or human excretion.

Professor Boxall pointed out that some of the highest pollutant concentrations were recorded in areas meant for ecological protection, which he found paradoxical. Alarmingly, Tideswell Brook exhibited higher levels of pharmaceutical contaminants than some urban areas like London.

The upcoming march in London is organized by River Action and aims to pressure relevant authorities into addressing pollution caused by individuals and businesses affecting rivers and lakes. An Environment Agency representative stated they are collaborating with various stakeholders to better understand how pharmaceuticals infiltrate waterways and have set up systems to monitor emerging contaminants.

Severn Trent Water acknowledged that no sewage treatment facility in England is specifically designed to eliminate pharmaceuticals. Meanwhile, government officials have announced a review focusing on environmental improvements related to chemical management in water sources. The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs expressed his commitment to addressing public concerns about water pollution through regulatory reforms aimed at holding polluters accountable.