Campaigners from Channel 4's Dirty Business series, which highlights the illegal dumping of untreated sewage by water companies in England, are urging the public to stop fully paying their water bills. They argue that consumers shouldn't be financially responsible for services that are fundamentally failing, as untreated sewage is being consistently released into waterways across the country without accountability from the water companies involved.

The campaign stems from extensive research conducted by former detective Ash Smith and university professor Peter Hammond, who, over a decade, have uncovered alarming evidence regarding sewage dumping practices. Their findings indicate that in 2026 alone, raw sewage was discharged into England's waterways approximately 1,600 times per day, with Thames Water being responsible for around 63 illegal discharges daily. These figures not only highlight the scale of the problem but also question the regulatory oversight and corporate responsibility of water companies.

As the documentary series sheds light on these illegal practices, it raises broader concerns about environmental protection and corporate ethics within public utilities. The suggestion to stop paying water bills is a call to action for consumers to demand greater accountability and transparency from the water industry, emphasizing the need for change in how water services are delivered and regulated in the UK.