Beyond the Flush
- UWARE Project -
The Project
The UWARE Project
UWARE stands for ‘Urban Water and Antimicrobial Resistance’ in Edinburgh. The overarching goal of the project is to investigate the microbiological quality of urban water bodies and their potential impact on public health.
Beyond the Flush is a project within UWARE that seeks to understand public perceptions, knowledge, and behaviors related to sewage overflows and water quality in Edinburgh.
Our goal is to raise awareness of sewage overflows and health hazards to the wild swimming community of Edinburgh. By gathering community input and showcasing relevant research, we aim to create a safer environment for all wild swimmers.
Get Involved
Please fill out this survey about the perceptions of risks associated with the activity. It could provide valuable insights into this growing recreational activity in our city.
Water Blog
Your Insights
"Concern over lack of regular testing/publicly available reports/accessible warnings on beaches. Until another swimmer told me about the sewage I had no idea it was a problem."
"The last time I swam at Portobello the beach was littered with evidence of a sewage overflow - sanitary towels and toilet paper. I haven't been back."
"Authorities seem to rely on the public to flag any issues. There is limited info for the public on how often testing is carried out and the results. Board in Portobello is often not updated."
"I have not swum since the summer because of the sewage danger from such wet weather, until then I swam all year round twice a week my mental health deteriorated when I couldn't swim but the danger from sewage was too great."
"Concern over lack of regular testing/publicly available reports/accessible warnings on beaches. Until another swimmer told me about the sewage I had no idea it was a problem."
"I have actually stopped swimming in Edinburgh due to water quality concerns and instead drive to Fife to swim."
Useful Information
Scottish Water Overflow Map
An online tool that shows where and when storm and sewer overflows occur across Scotland’s water network. By providing near-real-time or recent data on overflow events, the map helps communities, environmental groups, and regulators identify potential impacts on local waterways and ecosystems.
Edinburgh News
Provides updates on local sewage-related incidents, infrastructure projects, and policy developments that affect Edinburgh’s waterways.