For an Atlantic-facing island with an international reputation for grey skies, frequent showers and soaking rain, the UK must come to terms with the surprising challenge of managing its wet stuff very carefully over the next few decades … or risk running out of guaranteed...
There are important long and short-term reasons for taking early steps to protect exposed properties from rising sea levels, river flooding, saturated ground, damaged culverts, and other local surface and sub-surface flood vulnerability problems. Location and circumstances are clearly crucial in any flood risk assessment, as...
Rising sea levels could flood nuclear reactors around the world with catastrophic consequences, some experts warn. Fortunately, our site screening skills can identify dangers and opportunities at an early planning stage on projects of all sizes to avoid the worst impacts and minimise others. And size...
Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are nutrients essential for plant growth, but too much nutrient in runoff from land into waterbodies can cause excessive plant and algae growth (‘eutrophication’). Phosphorus is the most important nutrient in freshwater systems. This biological response can then result in dramatic...
We are clearly experiencing a growing number of extreme flooding events. And as heavy storm water surges through vulnerable towns and over low-lying flood plains, we are also seeing a trend towards a combination of more upstream ‘natural solutions’ and fewer downstream hard ‘concrete’ flood...
The universe’s smallest atom will soon enter the battle against global warming and climate change. Although its high potential is also controversial, I would like to explain why pragmatic environmentalists must help to introduce hydrogen into the UK’s growing mix of low-carbon energy technologies. Hydrogen has long...
Richard Hughes, principal hydrological modeller at Enzygo, discusses advancements in flood modelling. Enzygo Ltd are an independent, multi-disciplinary environmental consultancy with a proven track record of delivering creative, integrated and cost-effective solutions that maximise the potential of development sites. We use a collaborative approach to devise...
There are two things we know for certain in Britain. Either it’s raining, or it is going to rain. What we are less sure about is how soon, how much and how often, and how that translates into flood protection. As I hope to show, a...
Liz Austin, principal drainage engineer at Enzygo, discusses the importance of considering drainage issues from the outset of development plans. Enzygo Ltd are an independent, multi-disciplinary environmental consultancy with a proven track record of delivering creative, integrated and cost-effective solutions that maximise the potential of development...
Pollution laws protecting valuable but vulnerable conservation sites are blocking vital housing projects. Can we ease the problem? In many cases yes, with detailed assessments, special design measures, but also innovations like highly-efficient floating wetlands. English house-building is in a quandary. We need thousands of extra...