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
Rubbish, no matter how small, can harm wildlife and cause blockages which can lead to flooding. Be sure to bin it every time.
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.
Wash less – only use washing machines and dishwashers when you have a full load. Turn the tap off whilst brushing your teeth.
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.
Sinks, baths, toilets, washing machines and dishwashers should connect into the foul drain. Find out more at www.connectright.org.uk
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
Many of our drains lead directly into our rivers. Take them to your local household waste recycling centre.
If you see dead fish floating in the river, discoloured or smelly water, contact the Environment Agency hotline on 0800 80 70 60.
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.
Volunteer with Eden Rivers Trust and spread the word via social media and with your family and friends.