Will Fertilisers be Banned to Tackle Water Pollution?

Ammonia emissions are harmful to natural habitats such as rivers and lakes, as well as our own health. A recent Government consultation found 87% of the UK's ammonia emissions are caused by farming. This is forcing the issue in terms of banning the use of urea in fertilisers.

What causes the pollution?

There are 3 main sources of pollution the Government is looking to reduce:

• Ammonia reacting with nitrogen oxides and sulphur dioxide, forming a substance which is harmful to human health
• Nitrogen deposited on sensitive habitats, causing damage to the growth of certain plant species
• Nitrogen surface run-off polluting main water sources, causing harm to plants and animals

How does pollution affect farmers?

Poor agricultural practice can result in topsoil, containing both nutrients and pesticides, being washed away, polluting streams, rivers and groundwater. As a major contributor to the contamination of water sources, the government aims to clamp down on the use of these fertilisers in farming.

However, this pollution is not only damaging to the environment but can also have a significant impact on crop yield. In 2010, the degradation of soil was calculated to cost £1.2 billion a year in crop failure. 

Why choose Environmental Liability Insurance?

Designed with these potential changes in legislation in mind, our Environmental Impairment Liability (EIL) policy not only protects farmers and growers from damage to the environment caused by extreme weathering it also includes crop failure resulting from pollution. Ensuring minimal business downtime, this cover will give farmers and growers peace of mind. 

Get in Touch

Prevent the negative effects of pollution damage with EIL insurance and get in touch with Land Based Underwriters today to learn more about how to offer the best cover for these uncertain times.