Ken doll among unusual array of waste found in sewers

Severn Trent has revealed an unusual array of items causing sewer blockages, including a Ken doll.

Last year, the company cleared nearly 30,000 blockages, largely attributed to items improper flushed down toilets or poured down sinks.

Common culprits of these blockages are wet wipes, cotton buds, and sanitary products, which should be disposed of in the bin.

Grant Mitchell, Blockages Lead for Severn Trent, highlighted the preventable nature of these blockages, with improper waste disposal being a major factor.

In 2022, Severn Trent removed 20 million litres of fats, oils, and greases from the sewers, equivalent to the volume of six Olympic-sized swimming pools.

To tackle the issue, the company conducts educational campaigns and community engagements, offering tips on preventive measures.

Severn Trent oversees over 93,000km of water and sewer pipes, and urges customers to help prevent blockages by properly looking after their waste disposal habits.

Some tips include adhering to the 3P’s rule—only flushing pee, poo, and toilet paper—and disposing of fats, oils, and grease in containers or in the bin.

Additionally, even ‘flushable’ wipes should be thrown in a bathroom bin as they don’t decompose as effectively as toilet paper.

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