Understanding the Nutrient Mitigation Scheme
A simple, government-backed way to help protect your local environment.
STS installs high-performance Package Treatment Plants (PTPs) for eligible homeowners at no cost — reducing pollution from outdated septic tanks and supporting cleaner rivers and streams.
Cleaner Water, Approved Projects
By upgrading your old septic tank through our Nutrient Mitigation Scheme, you’ll be helping to protect local rivers and wildlife — at no cost to you.
Your upgraded system reduces pollution and supports sustainable development in your area. It's a simple, meaningful way to do your bit for the environment — with all installation and maintenance handled by our experienced team.
How it Works
We offer eligible homeowners a free upgrade from an old septic tank to a modern treatment system. It’s fully installed and maintained — and helps protect local rivers.
Who It’s For
If you have an older or basic septic tank, you could be eligible. We work with homeowners in priority catchments to improve water quality at no cost to you.
Why It Matters
Your upgrade reduces pollution, supports biodiversity, and helps make new housing possible in protected areas. It’s a simple way to do your bit — with expert support from a trusted team.
Understanding the Nutrient Mitigation Scheme
The Nutrient Mitigation Scheme helps homeowners reduce pollution from outdated septic tanks. It’s a practical, fully supported way to stay compliant with environmental regulations and protect the rivers, streams, and wildlife near your home.
Who Qualifies
If you own a property with an older or basic septic tank in a priority catchment area, you may be eligible for a free upgrade. We'll guide you through the process and handle everything from survey to installation.
Why It Matters
Outdated septic tanks can leak harmful nutrients into nearby rivers, harming wildlife and water quality. Upgrading your system helps restore local ecosystems — and supports responsible, sustainable growth in your area.
Understanding the Legitimacy of the Nutrient Mitigation Scheme
The Nutrient Mitigation Scheme is a government-backed initiative designed to help property owners and developers meet environmental regulations. By participating, you contribute to sustainable development, protect local water quality, and promote a healthier ecosystem. It’s a legitimate, proven route to ensuring compliance with local environmental standards.
For more details, visit the official government page on nutrient mitigation.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Nutrient Mitigation Scheme for residential property owners. These answers should help you understand how the scheme works and whether it's right for you (subject to eligibility).
The Nutrient Mitigation Scheme is a government-backed program designed to help developers and property owners reduce nutrient pollution. By upgrading septic systems, participants can offset the environmental impact of their developments while meeting regulatory requirements.
Property owners with existing septic systems and developers of new residential properties can participate in the scheme, provided their project meets specific location-based criteria.
The scheme is backed by environmental authorities and aligns with national regulations. It is a proactive approach to managing nutrient pollution effectively. By participating, property owners contribute to local environmental health. Qualification is based on demand and location. Demand is generated by new housing requiring credits which are then matched to potential sites in the correct river catchment. Contact us to find out if you are located in one of the catchement areas. See here for a map of those areas.
The nutrient credit system allows properties to offset their wastewater impact by upgrading to modern, efficient systems like Package Treatment Plants (PTPs). These credits are assigned based on installation locations and contribute to reducing overall nutrient pollution.
Participating in the Nutrient Mitigation Scheme ensures compliance with environmental regulations while protecting local water quality. By qualifying, you can receive a free Package Treatment Plant (PTP), which includes installation, ongoing maintenance, and full support, along with access to our real-time monitoring platform. It’s a straightforward way to meet legal obligations, improve your property’s sustainability, and reduce wastewater impact — all at no cost to you.
Upgrading your septic system typically takes three days:
Day 1 is dedicated to the survey and site preparation.
Days 2-3 are for the installation of the Package Treatment Plant (PTP). We carry out installations from March to November, depending on weather conditions. While we aim to complete the work within this window, the weather can affect the schedule. Our team works efficiently to minimise disruption to your property.
Yes, the Nutrient Mitigation Scheme is a government-backed initiative, actively implemented in key regions across Great Britain. It is currently operational in areas such as the River Camel, Poole Harbour, Solent and River Itchen, River Lugg (a sub-catchment of the River Wye), Stodmarsh, Norfolk Broads, Somerset Levels, and the River Avon. These regions are leading the way in nutrient neutrality efforts, working to reduce nutrient pollution and improve local water quality. The scheme is a legitimate, government-supported solution, helping property owners and developers meet environmental regulations and promote sustainable development.
If your property or development doesn’t qualify for the Nutrient Mitigation Scheme, don’t worry — we can still help. Our team will work with you to explore alternative wastewater solutions that meet environmental requirements. Whether you need a different type of system or more information about local regulations, we’re here to guide you through every option.
Still have questions?
Get in touch with us today!
Check Your Eligibility Today
Contact us now to find out if you qualify for the Nutrient Mitigation Scheme.
