Is there a UK Fatberg problem? [Is more action required with regards to FOG management?]

What Are fatbergs and how are they created?

A fatberg is a large, solid blockage of waste in a sewer system formed from the flushing non-biodegradable materials- mainly fat, oil and grease along with wet wipes. The fatbergs can grow to enormous sizes; one of the largest fatbergs recorded was in Liverpool weighing 400 tons, not only are the fatbergs massive they are also very difficult and costly to remove. FOG issues are a continual issue in all cities worldwide but is there enough being done to keep the problem under control and are the legislations surrounding grease management systems stringent enough.

What are the impacts?

Fatbergs are a burden for people, the environment and the economy. According to the BBC it costs £100 million pounds to clear an estimated 300,000 fatbergs in the UK alone. Thames Water serves 15 million customers and spends £18 million every year clearing 75,000 blockages from its sewers in London and the Thames Valley. Fatbergs can cause raw sewage to back up and flood homes, businesses and the local environment. Restaurants which are unable to install proper systems, such as grease traps and other measures, will face prosecution if they fail to comply to make required changes.
Click here to learn more about how Thames water deals with fatbergs using a case study of Canary Wharf London

What are the solutions?

Part of the solution is enforcing stricter legislation across the hospitality sector regarding FOG management. Every catering establishment is required by law to have an effective grease management system however, the question is how is stringent is this legislation, are the units maintained and are they in good working condition. Even if a grease trap installed in the establishment it does not mean that it is effectively trapping grease. For a grease trap to be effective, it has to be maintained and serviced along with being desludged. These steps are crucial in protecting the health of staff and customers, if not problems will arise over time. Blockages are unpleasant and unhygienic carrying a host of risk factors from unwanted vermin and odors. Enforce more education programs to raise public awareness campaigns about flushable waste and reduce the formation of fatbergs. Maintained grease traps are enough to prevent kitchen waste from entering sewers. The fatberg which could be changed into about 10,000 litres of biodiesel is enough to power 350 double-decker Route master buses for a day.

What are the dangers and how can Grease Guardian help the problem?

Fatbergs can be dangerous to both the environment and public health. They can clog sewer lines and cause backups that release raw sewage into the environment. The grease in fatbergs can also lead to fires when it comes into contact with electrical wiring. A fatberg can cause significant damage to infrastructure. Even the smallest fatberg can cause problems, so it is important to take steps to prevent them from forming.
Grease Guardian to the rescue!…Grease Guardian provide the ideal solution to help tack FOG blockages, this grease management system effectively taps grease at the source preventing it from entering the sewer network. The grease trap is an efficient piece of equipment it is cost effective and its unique design and shape allows it to be installed even in the smallest and awkward spaces. Grease Guardian allows FOG to be disposed of in a responsible way, with the environment in mind. The collected grease can be used a raw material for the production of biofuel rather than being disposed of.

The Benefits of Grease Guardian
Click here to watch our video explaining the grease trap benefits

Traps and Automatically Removes Grease
Filters Solid Food Waste
Reduces Pump Out Requirements
Easy to Install & Maintain
Collected Grease Can Be Recycled
Automatic PLC Controls
Web Based After Sales Support

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