What action is the Welsh Government taking to tackle agricultural sewage and other sources of pollution affecting the River Tywi and other rivers in Carmarthenshire?
Improving the health of the River Tywi and rivers across the whole of Wales is a priority for the Welsh Government. We are working with Natural Resources Wales, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, farmers, local authorities and environmental organisations to tackle pollution from all sources.
Natural Resources Wales has powers to investigate suspected pollution incidents and take enforcement action where necessary. Where pollution incidents occur, the Welsh Government expects regulators to investigate and, where appropriate, take enforcement action to ensure those responsible are held to account. Through initiatives such as the Better River Quality Taskforce and the West Wales Nutrient Management Board, we are bringing together key partners to identify and deliver actions to address nutrient pollution and improve water quality across the Tywi, Teifi and Cleddau catchments.
Addressing agricultural pollution, sewage discharges and other pressures on our rivers will require sustained action across government, regulators and delivery partners over many years. The Welsh Government remains committed to improving water quality, restoring nature and supporting the long-term recovery of Wales’ rivers.