Written Answers. - Water Quality.
Enda Kenny
Question:
282
Mr. Kenny
asked the
Minister for the Environment and Local Government
the estimated number of washing machines used here on a daily basis; the estimated average disposal of phosphorus into water systems from a single wash using commercial washing powder; the estimated annual discharge of phosphorus from washing machines; the extent of this as a pollutant; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[30773/01]
Enda Kenny
Question:
299
Mr. Kenny
asked the
Minister for the Environment and Local Government
his proposals to reduce levels of phosphorus being used in washing powders; if he intends to launch a public awareness campaign on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[30775/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 282 and 299 together.
The main threat to water quality in Ireland is eutrophication due to excessive inputs of phosphorus from various sources. The most recent comprehensive report on water quality from the Environmental Protection Agency relates to the period 1995-97 and indicates that 73% of such phosphorus inputs arise from agriculture, 15% from urban waste water treatment plants and rural households and 12% from other sources.
The total phosphorus content of domestic detergents was estimated at some 2,100 tonnes in 1996. Prior to the introduction of phosphate-free detergents, domestic laundry detergents contributed an estimated 35-40% of the phosphorus influent to wastewater treatment plants and septic tanks. The quantity of phosphorus entering water from such sources is continuously being reduced by the phasing-out of phosphate-based domestic laundry detergents and by the major programme of investment in waste water treatment plants by my Department and local authorities, including the provision of phosphorus removal facilities where warranted.
In December 1999 I signed a voluntary agreement with the Irish Detergents and Allied Products Association, IDAPA, for the effective phasing-out of the marketing by IDAPA members of phosphate-based domestic laundry detergent products in Ireland. IDAPA members supply some 90% of the domestic laundry detergents marketed in Ireland. The agreement provides for an incremental approach with targets as follows: by 30 June 2000 55% of market share to be zero phosphate; by 31 December 2001 90% of market share to be zero phosphate; and by 31 December 2002 95% of market share to be zero phosphate.
In May 2000, IDAPA merged with the Irish Cosmetics and Toiletries Association to form the Irish Cosmetics and Detergents Association – ICDA. Sales figures indicate that 73% of market share for the period 1 July to 31 December 2000, was zero phosphate. This compares with a figure of just under 51% for the preceding 12 month period and constitutes a significant and ongoing industry response to my Department's comprehensive strategy to tackle eutrophication of Irish rivers and lakes. In response to the ICDA commitment to the elimination of phosphate-based detergent products, my Department is liaising with the non-ICDA suppliers in relation to the remaining 10% of the market with a view to obtaining similar commitments for the "own-brand" sector. Significant progress is being made in this regard. Given the continuing and rapid phasing-out by industry of phosphate-based detergents, I have no proposals to launch a public awareness campaign in the matter.
The estimated average disposal of phosphorus into water systems from a single wash using commercial washing powder will vary depending on the type and quantity of detergent used. My Department does not have precise information on the estimated number of washing machines used on a daily basis.
