Functions

By the very nature of their technical function, water companies generally find that ecological conservation and promotion of biodiversity are key factors in the construction, operation and maintenance of their assets. Portsmouth Water is no different in this respect. It owns and operates sites in the valleys of the rivers Itchen, Hamble, Meon, Ems and Lavant, on the chalk hills of the South Downs and Portsdown Hill and in close proximity to the coast.

Given the importance of these areas in general terms for biodiversity, it is inevitable that there will be instances where Company activities can have a significant impact on biodiversity, if those activities are not carried out in the most appropriate manner.