BBC News – River Rheidol filter cuts pollution from mine

Cleaning up the Rheidol in Ceredigion

BBC News – River Rheidol filter cuts pollution from mine.

Toxic metals from the spoil heaps of historic lead mines in mid-Wales have been washing into the Afon Rheidol for years and years. The BBC reports that harmful metals entering the river fell by 99%:

The Environment Agency said a filter of compost, limestone and cockle shells had helped pollution levels plummet.

The pilot aims to bring the Rheidol’s water quality up to EU standards.

Results from the last 12 months show removal rates of up to 99% for zinc, lead and cadmium, which are harmful to marine wildlife.

The treatment system was designed by Newcastle University.

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