What Is the London Fatberg?

By Robert Palmer

In 2017, a massive blockage was found in the sewers of London. It weighed over 130 tons and was over 250 meters long.

This blockage, which came to be known as the London Fatberg, was a mixture of fat, oil, and other waste products that had been disposed of improperly. The fatberg caused widespread concern due to the potential health risks it posed to the public.

The Composition of the London Fatberg

The London Fatberg was primarily made up of congealed fat and grease that had been poured down drains and sinks. This fat mixed with other waste products such as wet wipes, sanitary products, and nappies to create a solid mass that was too large to pass through the city’s sewage system.

The Danger Posed by Fatbergs

Fatbergs such as the one found in London are not only unsightly but also pose significant dangers to public health. As they accumulate in sewers, they can cause blockages that lead to sewage backing up into homes and businesses. This sewage can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses such as gastroenteritis.

Preventing Fatbergs

Fatbergs can be prevented by properly disposing of waste products. Cooking oil should never be poured down sinks or drains.

Instead, it should be stored in a container and disposed of with regular household waste. Wet wipes, nappies, and sanitary products should also never be flushed down toilets.

Disposal Methods for Fatbergs

Once a fatberg has formed, it must be removed from the sewer system before it causes significant damage. In some cases, small fatbergs can be broken up using high-pressure water jets. However, larger fatbergs like the one found in London require more extensive methods for removal.

  • Manual Removal: Workers can physically break up the fatberg and remove it piece by piece.
  • Suction: Specialized equipment can be used to suck the fatberg out of the sewer system.
  • Chemical Treatment: Chemicals can be used to dissolve the fatberg, allowing it to be removed more easily.

The Future of Fatbergs

Fatbergs are becoming an increasingly common problem in cities around the world. As populations grow, so too does the amount of waste that is produced.

It’s crucial that individuals take responsibility for their waste disposal practices and make an effort to prevent fatbergs from forming. Failure to do so could result in significant damage to infrastructure and public health risks.