In 2008, 2009 and 2012 beaches in Britain suffered as unusually wet summer weather caused more pollution to run onto beaches at ground level and via overloaded sewers. <\/p>\n
In contrast, last years summer was the driest on record, leading to much lower levels of contamination. <\/p>\n
Met Office data suggests the early summer in Britain is more likely to be unusually wet than unusually dry, however, which could lead to another increase in pollution. <\/p>\n
By 2015 all beaches will be required to meet at least the minimum sufficient standard under the EU Bathing Water Directive, which is about twice as tough as the current standard. <\/p>\n
Beaches which do not make the grade will have to feature prominent signs warning visitors against bathing from the summer of 2016 onwards. <\/p>\n
Rachel Wyatt, Coastal Pollution Officer for the MCS, said: It's great news that we are able to recommend more beaches than ever for excellent water quality and it shows just how good British beaches can be. <\/p>\n
The main challenge now is maintaining these standards, whatever the weather. <\/p>\n
Most people don't realise what a big impact the weather can have on bathing water quality. <\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Originally posted here:<\/p>\n
British beaches are cleaner than ever<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" In 2008, 2009 and 2012 beaches in Britain suffered as unusually wet summer weather caused more pollution to run onto beaches at ground level and via overloaded sewers. Continue reading