Revived river boasts seals, sea horses and one piranha
By Terry Kirby, Chief Reporter
Published: 21 January 2006
In 1957, scientists declared the river Thames biologically dead, killed by the pollution that was a consequence of industrialisation and urban growth. Animal life, they said, could no longer survive in any measurable form in waters so bereft of oxygen.
But even as the Thames reached its nadir, things began to change. The industries of the South-east and the docks themselves declined during the 60s and 70s, reducing the amount of river traffic and pollution. At the same time, better methods of sewage treatment were introduced and power stations cleaned up their act. Public awareness increased. And the water began to recover.
Article Length: 594 words (approx.)
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