Sewage discharges surge nearly 3000 percent in Söderhamn, Sweden due to climate change

Discharges of sewage water significantly increased last year compared to 2022 in several regions of Sweden, according to figures from 25 municipalities. The contaminated water released into the environment in Söderhamn was equivalent to nearly three million bathtubs, marking an increase of almost 3,000 percent from the previous year.

This rise in sewage discharge is attributed to climate change, as more frequent and intense rainfall events put pressure on wastewater systems. Sara Söhr, CEO of Syvab, which operates a sewage treatment plant, explained that these discharges occur to prevent flooding of the pipe systems, driven by an increase in severe precipitation occurrences due to climate change.

Many urban areas in Sweden still rely on outdated wastewater systems, which combine sewage water with stormwater. This remains a key reason for substantial discharges in certain locations. Elda Sparrelid, the chief physician at Region Stockholm, warned that consuming sewage-contaminated water can lead to illness, with vomiting being one of the most common symptoms. She stressed the importance of not swallowing such water.

Christoffer Storkaas has expressed his belief that sewage and toilet debris found on his beach stem from these discharges. He criticized municipalities and treatment plants for not promptly informing the public about discharge events. In response, Sara Söhr acknowledged that treatment facilities could improve their communication regarding such incidents, suggesting that updates could be posted on websites to ensure faster public awareness.

Sewage discharges, known as overflow releases, occur when networks or treatment works are overwhelmed by heavy rainfall or snowmelt, allowing a mix of stormwater and sewage to enter lakes and oceans. Some municipalities with notable increases in discharges from 2022 to 2023 include Söderhamn (+2939%), Mora (+2568%), and Sala (+1842%).