Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

This paper explores the problematisation of fatbergs (mixtures of fat, oil and grease that have solidified upon melding with a plastic containing item, typically wet wipes, in the sewers) by Thames Water, the private company that manages the sewerage system in London. This research was completed using the “what is the problem represented to be?” approach to critical discourse analysis. Data for analysis was gathered through eight interviews from actors in both the water and wet wipe industries, as well as documents produced by Thames Water and governmental bodies of the water industry. The concepts of social class and nonperformativity were applied to the findings in the discussion stage. The main findings are that the current approach to dealing with fatbergs by Thames Water passes the responsibility onto their customers using education and enforcement campaigns, obscuring larger issues in the water supply network and with the company itself, such as the financial pressures of the industry and the ageing infrastructure the company has responsibility for. These campaigns focus on certain groups, notably lower social classes and children, as targets to be educated. There is also confusion about the issue throughout the industry, as it remains a somewhat hidden problem, which is further complicated by the issue of ‘flushability’ and wet wipes. Furthermore, Thames Water faces a barrier in any action it takes, as there is a significant lack of trust toward them.