Since 2023, the Danish Environmental Protection Agency has reported 17 wastewater companies to the police for illegal discharges, according to the Ministry of Environment and Equal Opportunities.

These reports stem from a tightened supervisory effort and a new strategy implemented by the ministry. The change in practice means the Danish Environmental Protection Agency is now more likely to report violations to the police, a departure from previous practices where warnings were more common.

The 17 reports encompass at least 33 different conditions, including unauthorized wastewater discharges into forests, streams, and coastal marine areas.

Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke emphasized the necessity of consequences for rule violations, stating that the increased police reports demonstrate the need for stricter enforcement.

The expanded focus includes overflows of wastewater, particularly after heavy rainfall when sewage systems are overwhelmed. The ministry is working on initiatives to limit overflows and is urging municipalities to take similar action, aiming to protect the environment and bathing water from the negative impacts of wastewater discharge. The goal is to obtain the best possible data on overflows to target efforts effectively.