This Christmas, Clean Coasts and Uisce Éireann have partnered up for the ‘Think Before You Pour’ campaign to spread awareness on the dangers of pouring fats, oils, and greases (FOGs) down the kitchen sink. The campaign advises that FOG’s “can cause serious damage to our homes, our communities, and the environment. FOGs, when poured down the sink, can cause expensive blockages in our home plumbing, pipes and wastewater networks leading to sewage overflows that can pollute our rivers, beaches, and oceans”. According to a 2024 Uisce Eireann survey, one in ten people very regularly pour FOG’s down the sink and 36% regularly pour FGO’s down the sink.

Dispose of waste wisely to prevent pollution and protect the environment.

The Importance of Proper Waste Disposal

Proper waste disposal is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment and preventing pollution. In Ireland, Uisce Éireann, the national water service, plays a vital role in ensuring that wastewater is treated and disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. However, the way we dispose of waste can have significant consequences on the environment.

The Impact of Cooking Oils on Sewers

Cooking oils are a common culprit when it comes to clogging sewers. When poured down the sink, they can solidify and cause blockages in the wastewater network. This can lead to costly repairs, increased risk of sewage overflows, and harm to aquatic life.