Using science and nature to end sewer misery
Amount awarded: £939,377
Led by: Northumbrian Water
Partners: United Utilities Group plc, United Utilities, Intelligent Gels, Thames Water Utilities Ltd, University of Durham, The Centre for Process Innovation Limited
Our innovation journey started by looking at novel ways to tackle pollution events that are due to tree roots and the blockages they cause. Together we have scientifically proven that we can repel tree roots away from the sewer network, with a coating that doesn’t affect tree growth. Our development could define the core activities of the future plus aid long term resilience of the network with a game changing approach to pollution reduction. The innovative Root Defender coating will apply to the existing network, i.e. anywhere that is affected by the invasion of tree roots, thus providing a long-term solution to reducing pollution events.
“Tree root intrusion is endemic across all wastewater networks, affecting homes and businesses. The funding will allow us to complete our innovation journey and deliver a new product to the market. With a real world solution, we are tackling a worldwide problem meaning, protection for everyone, everywhere, ending sewer misery.” – Matt Wilson, Managing Director, Intelligent Gels
Root Defender is still making excellent progress. The project solution is in place for application into the demonstrators. NWL operations team have allocated a representative from operations team, the representative is very experienced in the industry and is keen to be involved.
—
