The dirty truth: how sewage pollution drains the economy

03 October 2025 by CSG

Did you know ineffective sewage systems and pollution place a multi-billion pound burden on the economy each year?

Sewage pollution occurs when untreated or poorly treated wastewater contaminates land and water. In England, only 14% of rivers meet “good ecological status”. This ranks the UK among the worst in Europe for water quality. This widespread pollution threatens public health, harms wildlife, undermines tourism, and damages the natural beauty of the countryside.

In this blog, we’ll explore the hidden economic costs of sewage pollution. We will also explain how simple steps, like maintaining your septic tank, can help protect both your wallet and the environment.

What is sewage pollution?

Sewage pollution occurs when untreated or poorly treated wastewater enters rivers, lakes, soils, or groundwater.

In the UK, a major contributor is the ageing Victorian-era sewage infrastructure. This struggles to cope with today’s population growth, urbanisation, and extreme weather. Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) — drainage pipes originally designed as emergency outlets during heavy rainfall — are now being used routinely, releasing sewage directly into waterways.

Failing septic tanks also add to the problem. Poorly maintained systems let untreated wastewater seep into soil and water. This harms ecosystems. In some cases it can even contaminate local drinking water supplies.

Sewage pollutions effect on the economy

Cost to property owners

Regular maintenance of your sewage system is far more affordable than facing major repair or replacement costs. Annual servicing and emptying usually costs £200–£300, depending on the size of the tank that is emptied. In contrast, replacing a failed septic system can cost up to £14,000. This does not include the cost or disruption of digging up a well-landscaped garden, or the loss in property value that can come with a failing system.

By investing in small, routine costs today, property owners can avoid the financial and emotional burden of large-scale repairs tomorrow.

Public health costs

Sewage pollution doesn’t just damage property, it also carries serious health risks. Untreated wastewater can enter rivers, lakes and groundwater. It can spread harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This contamination increases the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses and skin infections. In severe cases it can even cause long-term health problems.

The economic impact of this is significant. More doctor visits, pressure on local healthcare services, and lost productivity from people taking time off work. Outbreaks linked to poor water quality can also affect schools, businesses, and tourism. This creates a ripple effect that goes far beyond the households directly affected.

Environmental & business costs

The environment often bears the brunt of sewage pollution, and the financial fallout is far-reaching. Polluted rivers and surface water harm wildlife, reduces biodiversity, and damage fragile ecosystems. For local communities, this can mean fewer opportunities for recreation, tourism and fishing. These are all sectors that contribute significantly to the UK economy.

In Northern Ireland, for example, septic tank pollution incidents have highlighted how quickly water quality problems can disrupt local industries and threaten jobs. Businesses such as fisheries, leisure centres, and tourism providers are left counting the cost. Meanwhile, governments and agencies face huge bills for environmental clean-up operations. In some cases, property owners may be liable for fines if their septic systems are found to be the source.

Prevention is cost saving

When it comes to sewage systems, prevention is always cheaper than cure. Routine maintenance, such as regular inspections and emptying, costs only a few hundred pounds a year. In comparison, replacing a failed sewage treatment plant can run into the tens of thousands. Not to mention potential fines for pollution incidents!

By keeping septic systems functioning properly, property owners protect their finances as well as the environment. A small investment now can help give you piece of mind that you are protecting both your surroundings and finances.

Steps for property owners

Every  septic tank owner has a role to play in preventing sewage pollution. Simple steps can make a big difference:

• Empty your septic tank regularly to avoid costly overflows.
• Inspect drainage fields and pipes for leaks or blockages.
• Avoid flushing harmful substances such as fats, oils, chemicals, or wipes.
• Use septic-friendly cleaning products to protect bacteria that keep systems working.
• Seek professional advice if you notice signs of failure, such as bad smells or soggy ground.

Sewage pollution is more than an environmental issue. It’s an economic burden that affects property owners, communities, and entire industries. By investing in simple septic tank maintenance, you can avoid costly repairs, protect your health, and safeguard local waterways. Prevention is affordable and essential for a cleaner, safer future where everyone can thrive.