10 things you can do to help save the Eden
“The trees are our lungs, the rivers our circulation, the air our breath, and the earth our body.”
Deepak Chopra
Eden is a unique network of rivers, becks and lakes that are essential to the lifeblood of the area.
All of us in the Eden catchment have an impact on the river and we can all play a role in caring for it. River pollution and mismanagement can damage the river and its wildlife for decades.
It will take all of us working together to have a healthy Eden – this is our river and our responsibility.
Here are 10 everyday things you can do
1. Don’t drop litter or fly tip
Rubbish, no matter how small, can harm wildlife and cause blockages which can lead to flooding. Be sure to bin it every time.
2. Choose eco-friendly laundry and cleaning products when washing your clothes and your dishes.
Phosphates are a common ingredient in household cleaning products, They pollute our rivers and act as fertilisers, increasing weed growth. Switch to phosphate-free brands instead.
3. Use water wisely
Wash less – only use washing machines and dishwashers when you have a full load. Turn the tap off whilst brushing your teeth.
4. Remember to only flush the three P’s – pee, poo & (toilet) paper
Everything else should go in the bin (even wipes that claim to be flushable). Items that shouldn’t be flushed can stick together, block the sewer and enter our rivers.
5. Check your home for misconnections
Sinks, baths, toilets, washing machines and dishwashers should connect into the foul drain. Find out more at www.connectright.org.uk
6. Check your septic tank & make sure it is working properly
If you’ve got one, make sure it’s working properly, isn’t leaking and is emptied once a year to stop phosphates seeping into the ground. Find out more about how to look after your off mains sewage system at www.callofnature.info
7. Don’t pour paint, chemicals or oils down the drain
Many of our drains lead directly into our rivers. Take them to your local household waste recycling centre.
8. If you see any signs of pollution contact the Environment Agency
If you see dead fish floating in the river, discoloured or smelly water, contact the Environment Agency hotline on 0800 80 70 60.
9. Check, clean and dry all your clothes and equipment before and after visiting your local river
Invasive species can affect fish and other wildlife as well as blocking up our rivers and being costly to manage. Help to stop the spread of invaders by following the check, clean dry code.
10. Get involved – volunteer with Eden Rivers Trust
Volunteer with Eden Rivers Trust and spread the word via social media and with your family and friends.