The importance of nitrate neutrality at Berewood
Berewood is in the process of being certified as nitrate neutral, overcoming a significant issue in the Solent region as multiple other projects have been put on hold due to their development containing compromising levels of nitrates in soils.
Whilst nitrogen is naturally present in soil and water, this is usually in low quantities and won’t have an impact on habitats or humans. When soil is disturbed however through building works, excess nitrogen is released which enters the water and this can have a devastating impact on biodiversity and public health.
To meet the detailed criteria set out by Natural England to achieve nitrate neutrality, extensive work has been done at Berewood to ensure all waste water flows to an upgraded water treatment works that uses a minimal amount of nitrate in its processes.