A landmark environmental scheme aims to protect local waterways and improve food service operations by cutting down on grease.
The initiative is a partnership between Anglian Water, Environmental Compliance and Services (ECAS), and top holiday destination, Fantasy Island.
Grease-trapping systems are being installed across the site’s food outlets, helping Fantasy Island set a new standard for responsible environmental management in leisure and tourism.
Many of the food outlets have already installed grease management systems, with additional installations expected to be completed by March.
This work forms part of a wider Anglian Water initiative with ECAS to tackle sewer misuse and reduce avoidable blockages across the region.
Since the collaboration began in 2019, it has already prevented an estimated 6,440 tonnes of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering the sewer network — the same weight of more than 50 blue whales kept out of local drains and waterways.
Fantasy Island isn’t the only one getting involved. Other staycation favourites along the East Coast — including Haven and 50 other holiday parks — are working with Anglian Water and ECAS.
They are helping spread the word about what should and shouldn’t go down the drain, helping visitors and staff alike make better everyday choices. These small changes are helping to protect local beaches and waterways from pollution caused by sewer blockages.
When Adam Flitter, environmental enforcement officer at ECAS, first toured the Fantasy Island site, none of the food outlets had grease management systems, but were eager to collaborate.
ames Parker, director of operations at Fantasy Island, said: “Once we understood the impact that unmanaged grease can have on the environment and local community, it was a no-brainer.
“This is something all businesses will need to address eventually, so why not get ahead of the curve and do the right thing now? It’s about protecting the place we all enjoy and depend on.”
In the Anglian Water region, 80% of sewer flooding incidents are caused by blockages, many of which are the result of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) entering the sewer system.
Last year alone, Anglian Water cleared over 35,000 blockages, removing tonnes of waste that could have caused flooding and pollution.
Wipes are also a major part of the problem. Around half a million wipes – tor 9,500 packets – are flushed into the region’s sewers every day.
They then mix with fats, oils, and other unflushable items, creating solid blockages because wipes don’t break down like toilet paper and can take over 100 years to decompose — even those labelled ‘flushable’ or ‘fine to flush’.
Connor Brailsford, Anglian Water, commented: “Stopping fats, oils, and grease at the source is one of the most effective ways to protect our environment – especially when combined with action on unflushable items like wipes.
“Which is why we’re working in blockage hotspots like Skegness to raise awareness and protect the local community through partnerships like this one.
“Fantasy Island’s proactive approach is a shining example of how businesses can play a vital role in keeping our sewers clear and our coastline clean.”
Adam added: “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved with Fantasy Island. To see so many businesses take this seriously and commit to making a change is exactly why we do this work. It’s been a real team effort, and the positive environmental impact will be felt for years to come.”
In a message to other food businesses and leisure destinations, James said: “Grease management isn’t complicated. The process is straightforward, and the costs are minimal when you consider the long-term benefits to both the environment and your business.”
Anglian Water’s ‘Just Bin It’ campaign continues to raise awareness of what should and shouldn’t go down the drain. Their spokesman Connor said: “We’re asking everyone – businesses and customers alike – to take a moment and think before they flush or pour.
“If it’s not pee, poo, or toilet paper, it belongs in the bin, not the drain. Together, through initiatives like this and everyday good habits, we can protect our homes, beaches, and environment for future generations.”
Anglian Water’s Network Protection team continues to support food businesses across the region in installing effective grease-management equipment.
Find out more and book a visit at Working together with Food Service Establishments.
