Stormwater

Rainwater falls on the roof of a building, washing debris and impurities along with it. It runs off the roof and on to driveways, roads and paths eventually draining into a system of pipes that is separate from the sewage system. It is referred to as “stormwater” and unlike sewage it is not normally treated.

Sometimes it may be filtered through measures located at the end of the pipe system. However, it still flows directly from the streets and gutters directly into the rivers, seas and oceans.

So, think about all the things that can get washed into the waterways. If you wash your car and hose it down afterwards, detergent ,oils and chemicals will be washed into the stormwater drains. Any litter that is on the streets, such as plastic bags or cigarette butts can be washed into the drains.

Straight from your street, to waterways - which are inhabited by fish, frogs and aquatic animals and plants.

From your driveway to the sea, where your children play and swim.

From your garden to the local creeks.