An investigation has found pharmaceutical pollution in a Sussex beauty spot. A significant number of pharmaceuticals were recorded at the South Downs National Park by researchers from the University of York and the Rivers Trust. The study of national parks across the UK found 20 different pharmaceuticals in the South Downs in winter months, while 18 were detected in the summer, with samples collected in 2022.
Concerningly, a pharmaceutical which can affect fish or invertebrate biotechnology - the type two diabetes treatment metformin - was detected in a high concentration in the River Ouse. Across the study, 52 out of the 54 locations were found to be contaminated by pharmaceuticals. Pharmaceutical substances are most often released into the environment through urine, but can also be distributed through improper disposal or use of medicines on animals.
The public is being advised to “play their part” by returning unopened, unused or out-of-date medicines to the pharmacy, rather than flushing them down the toilet. The River Ouse in Lewes (Image: Gregory Starks) Professor Alistair Boxall, from the University of York’s department of environment and geography, said: “Given the unique ecological value of these protected areas, our research highlights that the presence of these pharmaceuticals is concerning. READ MORE: 'Monster' fatberg unblocked from Sussex sewers “Our national parks are true hotspots for biodiversity and essential for our physical health and mental well-being - so we need to act swiftly to protect these irreplaceable environments and ensure the health of wildlife and visitors alike.
" Dr Rose O’Neill, chief executive of the campaign for national parks, said: "National parks should be full of pristine waterways brimming with wildlife but the ugly truth is every single river and lake is polluted. “It's a perversity of the broken water system that the situation within national parks is worse than elsewhere. “Despite being internationally recognised as protected areas for nature, many sewage works within national parks operate to much weaker standards than those in towns and cities.
“The blight of water pollution should be addressed everywhere - and the clean-up needs to start in national parks. “The government must ensure the highest standards are met and ensure companies and regulators are held accountable to bring national park waterways, loved and enjoyed by millions, back to full health.”.
