Work has commenced to eliminate a buildup of 180 tonnes of wet wipes in the River Thames, specifically in an area called 'Wet Wipe Island' near Hammersmith Bridge. The project involves a mechanical removal of the congealed material, weighing equivalent to 15 double-decker buses, using an excavator. Wet Wipe Island, which disrupts the river's course, poses ecological risks. This initiative aims to enhance river health and is supported by Thames Water's broader investment to reduce sewage discharges significantly. The PLA, inspired by volunteers, is leading this innovative clean-up effort.
For too long, 'Wet Wipe Island' in Hammersmith has been a source of environmental harm and an embarrassment to the capital. This is the first time anyone has sought to execute a mass, mechanical removal of wet wipes in this way.
The Port of London Authority will remove about 180 tonnes of congealed wet wipes that has formed along a 250m stretch of the tidal Thames near Hammersmith Bridge.
Efforts to clean wet wipes from the environment have previously relied on people removing them by hand. Inspired by the work of volunteers at Thames 21, the PLA decided to coordinate larger scale action to remove this unsightly and harmful mess.
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