Unblocktober | A powerful call to action for greener businesses

With climate change more pressing than ever, sustainability has become a priority for both businesses and individuals, and sometimes, the most meaningful changes begin in the smallest places.

Unblocktober is a timely reminder that small actions can lead to big environmental impacts.

What is Unblocktober?

Unblocktober is the UK’s first month-long national campaign to protect our drains, rivers and seas from pollution caused by improper waste disposal. Launched in 2019, it encourages individuals and businesses to pledge to change their kitchen and bathroom habits for the month of October and beyond.

Why workplace habits matter more than you think

Office kitchens

In busy workplaces, it's easy to overlook what goes down the drain. But office kitchens and bathrooms are common sources of pollutants like fats, oils, grease (FOG), wet wipes and single-use plastics. These substances can clog pipes and contribute to fatbergs, large, solid masses that block sewers and pollute rivers.

Despite growing awareness, 27% of UK adults still pour fats down the sink and 22% down the drain, meaning nearly half the population is still disposing of FOG incorrectly.*

Plastic pollution is another major concern. UK households discard around 90 billion pieces of plastic packaging each year, yet only 17% is recycled domestically.**

Simple steps businesses can take:

• Install sink strainers and proper waste bins.
• Educate staff on what not to flush or pour.
• Switch to reusable or compostable alternatives.

These changes protect infrastructure and help safeguard local ecosystems.

Blocked drains

Improper waste disposal can lead to blockages, flooding and expensive repairs, and for businesses, this impacts not only cost but reputation. Environmental damage caused by poor waste management can undermine brand trust, especially in sectors where sustainability is a core value.

Being proactive about drain care shows leadership. It signals that your business is environmentally responsible in both policy and practice.

Staff engagement

With climate change becoming increasingly urgent, sustainability has moved to the top of many business agendas. Nearly two-thirds of Gen Z in the UK want to work for companies that share their values, especially when it comes to environmental and social responsibility. This is supported by UK research, cited by BHSF, referencing an Ernst & Young survey, which also found that 86% of Gen Z believe having a sense of purpose at work is key to job happiness and wellbeing.***

When companies actively involve their teams in initiatives like Unblocktober, it fosters a culture of shared responsibility and drives meaningful, lasting change.

Employees who feel empowered to make a difference are more likely to take pride in their workplace, advocate for positive change and bring sustainability into their day-to-day decisions.

These small, collective actions, like disposing of waste properly, can lead to real environmental impact: cleaner rivers and oceans, healthier communities and a stronger sense of shared responsibility.

Be part of the solution

This October, your business can be part of the solution helping to tackle pollution in the UK’s drains, rivers and seas. Whether it’s installing sink strainers, running internal awareness campaigns or simply encouraging better disposal habits - small actions lead to big change.

 Make your pledge today!

Sources:

*Water UK

**Greenpeace

***Why Gen Z are flocking to purpose-driven work – and what this means for your organisation | BHSF