South East Water supports PhD student’s work on pesticide prevention

Pesticide pollution is one of the leading contributors to the alarming rate of freshwater extinctions globally. Many aquatic organisms face significant threats from chemical exposure, with sensitive species at the most critical risk. Meanwhile, removing pesticides from water at the treatment works requires further intensive and costly treatment.

Recognising the urgent need for solutions, the PhD research explores how combinations and concentrations of pesticides in freshwater impact ecosystems, specifically in the Ouse and Cuckmere rivers, where the company extracts its raw water.

The study zeros in on the Asian Clam (Corbicula fluminea), an indicator and Invasive Non-Native Species susceptible to environmental changes. Asian Calms outcompete other species and present a risk to native biodiversity.

By understanding how pesticide mixtures affect the Asian Clam, researchers aim to pinpoint the most harmful combinations and concentrations, providing critical data to inform policy and improve waterway management. 

 South East Water’s Surface Water Manager, Simon Lohrey, said: “This sponsorship reflects our commitment to safeguarding both the environment and the quality of water we supply.

“By supervising groundbreaking research like this, we’re helping to address a root cause of biodiversity loss while ensuring our water resources remain clean and sustainable.

“The findings from this research will have far-reaching benefits. The project will help protect freshwater biodiversity for the environment, ensuring ecosystems remain resilient. For drinking water quality, cleaner rivers mean fewer containments in water supplies, reducing the need for costly, intensive treatment processes.

“The support for the student marks a significant step forward in the fight against pesticide pollution and reflects South East Water’s ongoing mission to be a guardian of the environment.”

University of Brighton PhD student Graihagh Guille said: “The financial and personal support I received from South East Water was invaluable for my PhD project.

“The access to water quality data provided by the company was a key component in the success of the study, and the contributions from all involved ensured that the study reached its maximum potential.

“The genuine interest and importance of the project to the team was evident, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to work alongside them. We highlighted the importance of considering how different pesticide mixtures might vary in their impact on ecology.”