Water companies’ pollution incidents in England increased by 30% in 2024

The sector, which had been set a target to reduce spillages by 40%, needs radical reform', campaigners say

Water companies have missed their targets to reduce pollution with 2,487 incidents recorded in 2024 - twice the limit set by the Environment Agency.

Data revealed under freedom of information law shows the companies were collectively set an Environment Agency target of a 40% reduction in pollution incidents, but instead recorded a 30% increase.