Tourism and Sustainability: Fantasy Island Proactive Approach to Waste Management

Published on December 7, 2025

A Green initiative in collaboration with Anglian Water, ECAS (Environmental Compliance and Services) and Fantasy Island. It protects and improves the service provided to food outlets near the holiday destination. It sets Fantasy Island as one of the foremost holiday parks in the UK for sustainable tourism and proactive environmental stewardship.

Addressing Grease in Food Service Operations

As part of the ongoing efforts, several food service outlets at Fantasy Island have already implemented grease management systems, with more installations planned by March 2026. This initiative is vital in reducing the impact of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) entering the sewer system. These materials can cause severe blockages and damage the local drainage infrastructure, leading to pollution and flooding.

By taking proactive steps, Fantasy Island is setting a high standard in the leisure and tourism sector for environmental responsibility. Other holiday parks in the East Coast region, including Haven and more than 50 additional parks, are also joining this campaign to address grease-related issues. These businesses are raising awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal and encouraging both staff and visitors to make environmentally conscious choices.

Tackling Blockages in Sewer Systems

Since 2019, Anglian Water, in collaboration with ECAS, has been working to reduce sewer blockages caused by improper disposal of fats, oils, and grease. This initiative has already prevented approximately 6,440 tonnes of FOG from entering the sewer network. To put it into perspective, this is the equivalent of preventing over 50 blue whales from contributing to sewer clogs.

The issue of sewer blockages is widespread in the Anglian Water region, where around 80% of sewer flooding incidents are caused by blockages, many of which are linked to FOG. The partnership’s efforts are crucial in reducing these blockages and maintaining the integrity of local sewage systems, ensuring cleaner streets and waterways for the community.

Reducing Impact of Wipes and Other Unflushable Items

Alongside grease, unflushable items such as wet wipes are a significant contributor to sewer blockages. It is estimated that half a million wipes are flushed down the sewers every day in the Anglian Water region. Wipes, even those labeled as “flushable,” do not break down like toilet paper and can remain in the system for over a century.

This ongoing environmental effort seeks to educate the public about what should and should not be flushed, promoting the message that if it isn’t human waste or toilet paper, it doesn’t belong in the drain. This awareness campaign is vital to reducing the strain on local sewage systems and preventing environmental damage.

Collaboration Across the East Coast Region

The collaboration between Anglian Water, ECAS, and Fantasy Island is just one part of a broader regional initiative to improve waste management practices and protect local ecosystems. Several other holiday parks across the East Coast, from Skegness to the broader region, are adopting these best practices in grease management and promoting proper waste disposal to their visitors.

Guide for Travelers: How You Can Help

As visitors to holiday destinations like Fantasy Island, you play an important role in protecting local environments. Here are a few tips on how you can contribute to these sustainability efforts:

• Dispose of fats and oils responsibly: Avoid pouring cooking oils or fats down drains. Use a container to collect used oils and dispose of them in the proper waste bin.
• Avoid flushing wipes: Even if a wipe package claims it’s “flushable,” it can still clog drains. Dispose of wipes in the bin instead.
• Spread awareness: Encourage others to adopt responsible waste disposal habits, helping to protect the environment.

By following these simple steps, you can directly contribute to the success of initiatives like those in Fantasy Island and help protect the beautiful East Coast environment.

Benefits of Grease Management in Business

The importance of grease management extends beyond just environmental concerns. For businesses, effective grease control reduces the risk of expensive plumbing repairs, prevents potential fines, and improves operational efficiency. Fantasy Island’s decision to invest in grease management systems underscores the value of sustainability for both the environment and the long-term success of a business.

The systems themselves are straightforward to implement, and the cost of installation is minimal compared to the benefits. Businesses that take proactive steps like Fantasy Island are not only doing the right thing environmentally but are also future-proofing their operations.

Continuing the Campaign for Better Practices

The partnership between Anglian Water, ECAS, and Fantasy Island is part of a larger campaign to improve environmental stewardship across the UK. Anglian Water’s ongoing “Just Bin It” campaign encourages everyone, whether at home or on holiday, to think before they flush or pour anything into drains. Small actions, like disposing of fats and oils in the bin instead of down the drain, can have a significant positive impact on local waterways and the environment at large.

Conclusion

The combined work done by Anglian Water, ECAS, and Fantasy Island is an example of how tourists focused businesses can take on their environmental responsibilities. Thanks to the grease-trapping systems and sustainable waste management, these companies are making a REAL difference to the local community. With businesses, visitors and local users working together, the local waterways will be protected for future generations.

The straightforward waste disposal activities that are available for all of us, allow each person to support such an important environmental cause. Going forward, the East Coast region is going to be the prime example for the rest of the country on how to use, and it’s evident that there is a lot of positive environmental impact from these small things.