Protecting the environment from unsustainable abstraction and achieving sustainable catchments.
Taking too much water from rivers, wetlands or out of the ground can be damaging to the environment. We are reviewing thousands of abstraction licences to find out whether water abstraction is causing environmental problems. Where we find licensed abstraction is a problem, we are working with abstractors to find solutions.
Changing your abstraction licence
If we find that your licence is causing, or may potentially cause, environmental damage we may need to change or modify your licence. We will talk to you about the options available, so that we can find the best solution for both you and for the environment.
Reducing damage to the water environment
We aim to create sustainable catchments. To achieve this we work closely with partners such as water companies licence holders, businesses and environmental groups. We do this through local environmental protection activities and national programmes.
Restoring sustainable abstraction near you
We are currently investigating hundreds of licences at 224 schemes in river catchments across England. These schemes include sites with various protected designations.
