Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 18
18
Paragraph: 126
In order to drive down further the excess levels of phosphate and nitrates on agricultural...
Conclusion
In order to drive down further the excess levels of phosphate and nitrates on agricultural land, annual chemical assessments will be required. Where appropriate, farmers ought to be supported to assess the existing phosphorus and nitrogen status of their land before spreading either farmyard manure or sewage sludge from water companies. The new Environmental Land Management Scheme provides an opportunity to provide financial help to farmers for measures to reduce progressively the input of phosphates and nitrates that cannot be taken up by crops.
Paragraph Reference:
126
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The water industry is required, under the Environment Act, to install continuous monitors upstream and downstream of all its sewage discharges. The Environment Agency will supplement this with their ongoing use of continuous water quality monitors to investigate pollution sources from all sectors. The development of cost-efficient and effective sensors is largely a matter for manufacturers. The Environment Agency do not have a role in product evaluation.