Thursday 26 May 2005

WaterSense will be promoting the use of phosphate-free washing powders and dishwasher tablets in Forfar in an effort to reduce the algae appearing on Forfar loch every summer.

"The phosphate content in washing powders and dishwasher tablets can range from zero to over 30 per cent so we're urging Forfar residents to check their labels and reduce the amount of phosphates they use to 5 per cent or less.

"The impacts of high phosphate use in the home is shown by the unsightly appearance of the green algae on Forfar Loch and the resulting suffering of local wildlife.

"If local people can reduce the amount of phosphates they are using at home Forfar Loch will become a better place for wildlife and people," said Miranda Jacques-Turner, WaterSense Campaign Co-ordinator.

"WaterSense sounds like a good idea and I don't see why people wouldn't try to use phosphate-free products if they care about Forfar loch. We'll be testing out phosphate free washing powders and see if they can keep our whites white, our blues blue – and stop our loch turning green!" said Lynn Simpson, Forfar Farmington Ladies F.C.

What can you do?
By choosing washing powders, laundry liquid and dishwasher tablets that don't contain phosphates, people can help make Forfar Loch a healthier, safer place for everyone to enjoy.

• Check your labels and look out for the word PHOSPHATES on the side of each packet. Phosphate is sometimes called sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). Aim for less than 5 per cent phosphates
• Or choose ecological 'green' brands – they are 100 per cent phosphate-free.
• Try to buy laundry liquids instead of washing powders. Laundry liquids tend to contain fewer phosphates, while laundry tablets tend to contain the most phosphates.
• Remember, Forfar is a soft water area. The softer your water, the less washing powder you need so stick to the minimum dose for your normal wash in Forfar.

"Research has shown that the algae in Forfar loch is a direct result of phosphate use in the home, and not from agriculture. That's why Forfar residents have such an important role to play in the health of their loch.

"If we want to see Forfar loch continue to improve, and welcome the return of wildlife such as otters and kingfishers, then we need to make some small, simple changes to the way we clean clothes in Forfar," continued Miranda Jacques-Turner, WaterSense Campaign Co-ordinator